Have you been hurt? Doesn't this sound like an ad we have all heard on TV or radio? But in all seriousness, if you're injured, whether it be from something serious like a car accident, slip and fall, sports injury, or on the minor side like tweaking your back doing housework, these injuries all need to be checked by a health care professional to determine the level of damage and give proper care to make sure it doesn't get worse. In this blog, we'll talk about some tips on managing your injury both physically and emotionally, as well as some tips on providers that can help, like chiropractic care and how to stay busy while you heal.
First off, being hurt and in pain from an injury is troublesome. It is going to affect your daily routine. Depending on the type of injury and severity, you may be unable to perform certain activities or instructed to avoid activities that you enjoy, like sports/intense activity or other hobbies, by your health care provider. It can be challenging to know what to do. It's hard to stay away from things you love, and that helps you stay active and healthy. However, following the doctor's instructions is essential to avoid aggravating or worsening your injury. Fortunately, there are ways to help ease the impact of your injury and keep your body healthy while you recuperate.
Who Should I see when injured?
Suppose the injury is not severe enough to be seen at the ER or Urgent Care. In that case, I strongly recommend being evaluated by your chiropractor. Chiropractors specialize in conditions of the musculoskeletal system and spine and train to diagnose and treat those conditions. Suppose your injury brings you to the ER or urgent care first. In that case, I recommend the chiropractor when you heal enough to be evaluated by one.
1. Health Benefits of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is highly beneficial for injury rehabilitation and pain management. Chiropractic care is complementary to traditional medicine and focuses primarily on the musculoskeletal system, including the spine and joints. Chiropractors use manual techniques to ease pain, improve flexibility, and realign the spine and other joints. They also offer exercises to help strengthen your muscles, improve posture and enhance balance. This type of care is non-invasive and drug-free, making it an excellent choice for those who want to avoid medications and surgeries. However, chiropractic care is not a one-size-fits-all solution and requires a personalized treatment plan.
2. Addressing the Root Cause of the Injury
Chiropractors aim to identify the root cause of the injury and address it directly, including assessing your posture, exercise routine, and lifestyle habits. The chiropractor can design a tailored treatment plan to suit your needs. Some common conditions that can benefit from chiropractic care include back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sports injuries.
3. Staying Active While You Heal
Just because you're injured doesn't mean you have to be inactive. It's vital to keep moving to maintain mobility, circulation, and muscle strength. However, it would be best if you avoided activities that could aggravate your injury. You can still do light exercises that don't put a lot of stress on the site of the damage. These could include gentle stretching, swimming, or walking. Staying hydrated, eating well, and getting enough sleep is also essential. Try to focus on activities you enjoy, like reading, watching your favorite show, or spending time with friends and family. I strongly encourage patients to get up and move for at least 15 minutes every hour. Movement is vital to healing, especially the spine. Bed rest was the recommendation for injuries, especially injuries to the low back. Still, research has shown that the body heals best when in motion. I know firsthand that bed rest is not ideal for severe low back pain.
4. Avoiding Overuse of Digital Devices
While recovering, grabbing your phone or tablet and scrolling endlessly through social media is tempting. Nevertheless, too much screen time can harm your overall physical and mental health, especially if you have an injury to your spine. Staring at a screen/ blue light for long periods can cause eyestrain, headaches, and neck pain. To avoid these problems, take regular breaks from digital devices, and give your eyes and neck a rest. Instead, try doing something else like creating art, visiting with a friend, or doing something physical like a nice walk or stretching.
5. Conclusion:
In conclusion, taking care of your body is essential, especially when healing from an injury. Following doctor orders, engaging in physical therapy, and seeking chiropractic care can help speed healing, manage pain, and prevent future injuries. Furthermore, maintaining an active lifestyle, eating well, and getting enough sleep is essential for your health and well-being. You can still stay busy and occupied while you heal by doing light exercises and engaging in activities you enjoy. Lastly, avoiding the overuse of devices can help prevent additional pain and health issues. Remember, you control your injury; taking action is crucial for optimal healing.
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