Recovery following a sports injury or surgery can be tedious. The loss of fitness can be frustrating. The best way to deal with the recovery blues is to ease back into exercise with some of the following advice and tips from those who have suffered from orthopedic injuries:
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Getting Off the Couch Is Key
You know your body, and you should be honest about what you can handle following an injury and some downtime. The best approach is to talk to your doctor or a trusted orthopedic specialist who can guide you through the process of recovery. Explain that you want to stay fit and active, and they can assess your needs and abilities.
People recovering from injury are often able to exercise at the gym and perform useful stretches. Ask about a simple gym routine that you can follow, or light stretching to facilitate flexibility and healing. -
Listen to Your Doctor and Don’t Push It
If your doctor advises you to avoid putting weight on an injured leg, arm, or joint, follow this advice. It’s best not to push yourself to the point of pain. If you’re unsure about a movement, ask before attempting it. -
What You Eat and How You Think Are Important
Good, nutritious food encourages faster recovery, provides energy, and helps you stay active during downtime. It’s also important to avoid constipating foods, which can be a side effect of pain medication.
Mental health plays a major role in healing. Staying positive can make a real difference—research has long shown a connection between mindset and physical recovery. Be kind to yourself and keep anxiety in check. -
Get Creative with Your Movement
One of the best ways to stay motivated is to change up your routine. If you’re recovering from an orthopedic injury, consider modifying movements, using gym machines differently, or focusing on strengthening other parts of your body while protecting the injured area.
If you are dealing with an orthopedic injury, we would love to help you on the road to recovery.
Call Orthopaedic Specialists of Connecticut at 203-775-6205, or visit our website for more information: Orthopaedic Specialists of Connecticut .
