Nobody enjoys the experience of an injury. In fact, it’s something that we actively avoid - taking conscious efforts to avoid risky scenarios and benefiting from societally implemented health and safety regulations that ensure our employers, owners of private spaces and authorities governing public spaces and others take measures to keep us as safe as possible at all times. But that’s not to say you’ll never experience an injury in your life. Problems can befall us all and nobody’s ever completely exempt from the chance of hurting themselves. This is why it’s absolutely essential that you know exactly what to do to prioritise your health, wellbeing and recovery if you do ever become injured. Here are a few suggestions that should guide you in the right direction.
Seek Medical Attention
A huge number of us avoid visiting the doctor. We assume the seemingly small or minor injuries will get better of their own accord. But this isn’t always the case. In fact, without a checkup, you could risk problems worsening, healing in the wrong way, or other issues that will result in more trouble, medical work, pain and a longer recovery time down the line. So, as soon as you experience an injury, seek medical advice. The urgency will depend on the best route for you. If the situation is an emergency, of course, you should go to the accident and emergency. If things aren’t as urgent, you should still book in for an appointment with your general practitioner at your local surgery as soon as possible. They’ll be able to survey the damage and prescribe you medicine or recommend lifestyle changes that can help you to fully recover.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Your doctor's advice might not be what you want it to be. But listen to it. They’re the professionals! If your doctor says to take time off work, take time off work. If your employer isn’t understanding and doesn’t provide sick pay, you could look into who’s at fault for your incident and claim compensation to cover your lost costs - no matter what your scale of pain is on a scale of 1 to 10. If your doctor says to complete a course of medication, complete it as prescribed. If your doctor says to stop going to the gym or sports clubs, don’t go. Sure, this may feel dull and it may feel like your life is on hold. But you could find yourself withdrawn from the things you love for even longer if you worsen your injury.
Be Patient
Recovery takes time. It’s not always an overnight process. Be patient with yourself and your body. Don’t push yourself too far. Don’t push yourself too soon. Giving yourself the time you need will make all the difference!
Sure, these steps may seem straightforward. But so many people neglect them. Incorporate them into your recovery and you’ll be on the right path. They really can make all the difference!
