Injuries always seem to come out of the blue. Whether you’ve been injured while playing a physical sport, in an accident or fall, or are suffering a repetitive motion injury, a solid rehab program may be useful in getting back your mobility, range of motion, strength, and ability to function in your day to day life. A complete program may include physical therapy, pain management, and careful monitoring by your medical team to ensure that you heal effectively without aggravating the injury.
Right After an Injury
If you’ve been injured, the very first thing you need to do is seek medical attention. Trauma injuries, like fractures or concussion, must be addressed immediately. Once the initial treatment is complete, you may be sent home with a cast or brace, and a prescription for painkillers. The initial care is important to prevent long-term damage, but once the injury is on its way to healing, it’s important that supporting structures, like muscles, be cared for to prevent a temporary injury from becoming a long-term weakness.
Post Injury Rehab
Once traumas, like fractures, are addressed and stabilized, the appropriate course of therapy will depend upon your fitness level, the type and extent of the injury, and your doctor’s assessment and recommendations. Depending upon the type and severity of the injury, rehab may range from a few physical therapy sessions to re-learning major life skills like walking. Most injuries can be dealt with in physical therapy with pain management and stretching and strengthening exercises.
Psychological Concerns
One often-overlooked aspect of injury recovery is the psychological aspect. A moderate to severe injury may leave the patient with some residual trauma. Be sure to discuss any concerns you might have with your doctor. Anxiety, a feeling of loss of control, and depression are all common reactions after an injury. Part of rehab is regaining not only strength but confidence.
Don’t let an injury slow you down. Contact Alphacare to discuss your rehab options today.