There were 5.2 million motor vehicle crash-related medically consulted injuries in 2022, which cost the US economy $481 billion. The death rate per 100 million miles was 1.44. Workplace injuries are also costly, and in 2020, there were 1.17 million non-fatal workplace injuries, causing employees to take time away from work.
While your primary focus after a personal injury may be on your medical treatment and recovery, it’s essential not to neglect self-care during this difficult time.
Brian Vines, one of the experienced personal injury lawyers in Lexington, shares some self-care tips to help you heal holistically while recovering from a personal injury:
Get Plenty of Rest After an Injury
Your body needs extra rest to heal after an injury. Sleep is crucial for tissue repair, pain management, and recovering your energy levels. Listen to your body’s signals and rest when you feel fatigued.
Eating Nutritious Meals
Avoid junk and processed foods, which can exacerbate inflammation. A balanced, nutritious diet will provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to heal.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water, herbal tea, bone broths, and fresh juices. Dehydration can slow your recovery. To encourage healthy hydration, add lemon, mint, or fruit to your water.
After an Injury, You Should Modify Your Exercise Routine
While resting is important, avoid being completely sedentary, as this can worsen pain and stiffness. Speak to your healthcare provider about safe, gentle exercises you can do while recovering, like walking, swimming, or stretching. Low-impact activity encourages blood flow and mobility without overexerting your injury. Move your body daily, even if just for a few minutes.
Practice Relaxation Techniques While Recovering from an Injury
Recovering from trauma is stressful, both physically and mentally, and 39.2% of multi-vehicle accident survivors go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Make time to relax daily through techniques like deep breathing, meditation, visualization, journaling, or whatever works for you. This will help lower your stress hormones and manage discomfort, anxiety, or depression related to your injury. Use relaxation as part of your self-care routine.
Connect with Your Support System
Don’t isolate yourself while recovering. Spend time with supportive friends and family who can brighten your spirits and help with daily tasks. Accept help from your support system when offered. Connecting socially is vital for your mental health and reminds you that you are loved during this challenging time.
Focus On Positive Progress While Recovering From Your Injury
Maintain a positive mindset and regularly remind yourself that things are steadily improving, even if the pace is slow. Patience and positivity will help motivation.
While Recovering from Your Injury, Take Things One Step at a Time
Recovery can take from a couple of weeks to months. Don’t rush your recovery or overwhelm yourself trying to do too much too soon. Take things slowly, respecting your physical limits. Listen to your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Break larger tasks into smaller steps that feel manageable. Don’t let the pressure to recover quickly sabotage your self-care. Accept that healing from an injury takes time.
Speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer
It is wise to contact a spinal cord injury lawyer if you’ve suffered a personal injury. An experienced personal injury lawyer can advise you on your legal options and the best path forward. They can manage insurance claims, determine fair compensation, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if needed. Legal counsel protects your rights and interests during recovery.
Recovering from personal injury requires tender loving care for your body and mind. Being patient and compassionate with yourself while listening to your needs will help facilitate an optimal recovery. Maintain self-care habits that support your physical and emotional health.
