After an injury, medical issue, or surgery, recovery can seem like a never-ending obstacle. These are 5 things you didnt know your recovery needs. Although it would be wonderful to pretend that it never happened and jump straight back into your routine, that isn’t always the healthiest option. You must rest to allow your body to recover and take any medicine that is prescribed to you.
All of these tips, however, are the “common sense” ways to treat a medical issue – you’ve likely heard of them already, right? Here are several ways that you may not have considered to help aid the recovery process.
Cold Baths and Showers
It’s common knowledge that putting ice on an injury helps it to heal more quickly and reduce inflammation. So, why not ice your whole body? Exposing your body to lower temperatures will help to improve your immune system, which will allow you to stay healthy.
It also improves your circulation, allowing your heart and blood to be healthier and your blood to get through your body more effectively. You will have more energy, too, which will give you further motivation to be up and active. Cold showers and baths also help to reduce inflammation, which will help your muscles and tendons repair more quickly.
There is also a mental benefit of taking cold baths and showers. By stepping out of your comfort zone and voluntarily “shocking” your body, you will become more motivated to conquer tasks that you previously saw as impossible. This may translate to getting up and walking around a bit while you are recovering.
Although it’s important to get rest, you must still keep your body moving. Otherwise, your body will become used to laying around all day. Taking a cold bath or shower can give you the mental boost that you need to initiate such endeavors.
Natural Oils and Supplements
One method that you may not have considered to help your recovery is using natural oils and supplements. CBD oil, for example, has been proven to help reduce pain and lower stress and anxiety levels and is a natural substance derived from a plant.
CBD has been avoided due to its association with marijuana, but the two are very different. They come from the same plant family, but CBD cannot make you high like marijuana, and it is simply a plant with healing benefits. CBD oil helps to reduce inflammation and thus reduce pain.
Professional Caregiver
One way to aid in the recovery process is to get the help of a professional caregiver. This professional will be able to assist you in anything that you may need help with, and they will be able to monitor your health to make sure that you are recovering as quickly as possible. This is especially helpful if you have trouble moving, as they can help assist you with everyday activities and provide company while you are recovering. Take some time to find the right caregiver for you and your situation. Not every caregiver is right for every recovery, so take some time to find one that specializes in the care you need.
Diet and Water
After surgery, there are certain foods that are beneficial for you to eat to recover more quickly and provide your body with the nutrients that it needs. These ideas may be translated to recovery for illness, injury, or a medical procedure. One key aspect of your diet that is important is getting enough protein. This will help to increase your muscle strength as you recover.
Fiber is also important, as it reduces constipation. Fruits and vegetables will provide you with vitamins and nutrients, as well as an energy source. Make sure that you stay away from heavily processed foods, as they can slow you down. If you are having trouble eating, consider making shakes and adding supplements to them. It is also important that you stay hydrated and consistently drink water.
Mindset
Your mental health has both a direct and indirect effect on your physical health. When you think positively, surround yourself with the right people, and stay motivated, you will experience great health benefits. When you are stressed, your body shuts down and is unable to operate at its best. Your mindset affects your health greatly. As a result, you must keep yourself busy with activities that you enjoy. It may also help to talk to people who you care about while you recover.
While recovery can seem like the worst part of an injury or surgery, these tips can help make the process go much more smoothly and have you feeling like new in no time.
By Caroline Fletcher, Associate
Remedy Review, A Three Ships Company
