News Taffy

At some point in our lives, we all get injured. Maybe you fall off a ladder trying to clean the gutters or perhaps you tear your ACL playing tennis. However it happens, the recovery period is not a fun time. Last week, I got thrown from my horse and discovered just how hard the ground is. I knew right away that this injury would require more than a soak in a hot tub and Ibuprofen. So, now I’m sharing some tips for coping after an injury and speeding up your recovery.

First and most important, assess whether your injury can be treated at home or a trip to the doctor is necessary. I’ve fallen off horses before but I’ve never had pain so bad and had trouble getting up and walking. I saw a doctor the same afternoon and had x-rays to rule out broken bones. If you can’t perform normal activities, were unconscious, bleeding badly or have pretty severe pain, see a doctor immediately.

Accept that you are injured and follow your doctor’s advice. Take any medicine prescribed and see a physical therapist as recommended. Ignoring your problem or being “tough” won’t make it go away and may prolong your recovery.

Rest. I have a hard time sitting still but I took two naps a day for a couple of days after my fall. My body was telling me I needed the rest. Let your friends and family take care of the chores; only do what you absolutely have to.

Use an ice pack as soon as possible to relieve swelling. Keep it in place for about 15 minutes several times a day. I also found alternating with a heating pad or soaking in a hot tub helped with stiffness but check with your doctor first. Heat may increase bleeding and swelling.

If possible, elevate the injured area to reduce swelling. Compression wraps may help support the injured area but make sure not to wrap the area too tightly which can increase swelling or cut off blood flow.

Eat right while you are recovering. This is no time to drown your sorrows in junk food and alcohol which will just pack on the pounds. You may want to cut back just a bit on the food you eat if your recovery will take a long time and you are unable to exercise. I’ve given up all sweets for instance.

The physical therapist is your new best friend. Follow their advice and don’t miss any appointments. They can really speed your recovery safely.

Ease back into your normal day to day activities. Don’t be tempted to do too much the first day you feel better. I picked up dinner from Meals For Moms and Barry will have to clean the litter box tonight. Certainly ease back into your former workout routine so you don’t re-injure yourself. You may need to find an alternative workout for awhile until you are ready for more strenuous activities.

Keep a positive attitude; you will get better!

Until next week, Lisa