The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. You have the physical, emotional, and financial aspects of the accident to deal with and all of them can add challenges to your recovery. If you try to get back to your normal routine too quickly, your body will let you know that you should try other ways of seeking wellness after an accident. These tips to physical and mental recovery from an accident will get you on the path toward total wellness.
Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations
No matter how injured you are or what injuries you have from the accident, consulting with a doctor about the best way to recover is always recommended. If you decide to file a lawsuit against the other parties involved in the accident, you’ll be required to prove your injuries through a medical professional’s documentation anyway, so even if you aren’t sure you’re injured or your injuries seem minor, visiting your doctor should always be the first thing you do after an accident.
If you aren’t able to get an appointment right away to see your own doctor, go to an emergency room or urgent care facility to get checked out. They will at least document that you came in and were examined for injuries and if they find any, they will provide you with instructions on treatment until you’re able to follow up with your doctor or a specialist.
Ice, Ice, Ice
You are probably going to be at least somewhat sore following your accident. The most common aches following a motor vehicle collision are back and neck pain, but you could also have bruises, headaches, and other pain. Ice can help with it all. Not only does ice help numb the pain to some degree, but it also reduces inflammation, a major contributor to pain.
Apply ice to the affected areas for 15 to 20 minutes, take an hour off, then apply it again. Always put a towel or other cloth barrier between your skin and the ice to make sure the coldness doesn’t damage your skin. The more you can limit inflammation in the first 72 hours following your accident, the faster your recovery will be.
Rest
After a significant physical trauma like a car accident, your body needs time to heal. The only way this can happen is through rest. If you try to go back to work too soon or insist upon doing household chores, you’re going to extend your recovery. This is especially important for the first couple of days after the accident, so don’t push yourself to recover overnight. Your doctor will let you know what activities you can safely participate in without causing more damage to your body, so pay attention to their instructions so you don’t overdo it.
Drink Plenty of Water
When your body is injured, it can become dehydrated more quickly. For this reason, increase your water intake from 64 ounces to at least 80 ounces per day. Your muscles will thank you.
Conclusion
No two bodies will recover at exactly the same pace after a car accident. But following the advice here, and that of your doctor, will help your body heal as quickly as possible.
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