When you’re an active person or play a lot of sport, getting sidelined through injury can be a hugely frustrating thing to go through. You take for granted how much your mobility means to you, until you find yourself hobbling around, unable to do the things you used to do.
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If you’ve seen a doctor or been to a physio, you’ll probably have been given some exercises and a timeline for when you might be able to see some improvements. In this blog, we take a look at what you can do to help your recovery and get back on your feet again.
Don’t Cheat!
You know your body best but it’s always a good idea to listen to the professionals. You might feel that injured ankle could take some load bearing in the gym or a light jog but think again. While the pain may have subsided, your body is still doing the important job of healing. Why risk adding on more injury time and recovery time. Stay away from the weights and do the exercises your physio recommends, even if that’s just some stretching and flexing.
Stay Active
That doesn’t mean you need to become inactive, particularly if you’re not having to use crutches or a wheelchair. If you get the nod, think about your recovery as an active recovery. Try a non-load bearing activity such as swimming or a stationary bike for example. You might even try some seated weights for your upper body, that don’t place your lower limbs under any pressure or vice versa.
Check-in With Your Mind
Being injured can take its toll mentally as well as physically. Those endorphins you’re used to can disappear and you’ll find yourself feeling bored and flat. When you do feel like this, it’s important to be honest with yourself and recognise those emotions as completely natural. If you feel them escalate then do go and talk to a healthcare professional about how best to manage your thoughts during your recovery time.
Finding distractions can often help and those books you always wanted to read or that online course you meant to complete can come in handy at a time like this.
Getting injured can feel like the worst thing in the world. Not just physically but the frustration and boredom can quickly become a problem for you and for those around you. Look at how you can get through the next few weeks and months as your body starts the process of healing itself slowly but surely.
Find alternative exercise that will help you feel more physically and mentally sharp. Make sure to listen to your doctor or physio and do not try any exercises that will put your recovery in jeopardy. Finally find ways to take your mind off the process and help distract you with something fun and interesting. Your injury will recover and you will get back to doing what you love, it just takes time and patience.