Are you caught in the frustrating loop of an injury that just won’t heal? You’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves in this predicament, waiting for the pain to subside while days turn into weeks, and weeks into months. However, there may be underlying reasons why your nagging injury isn’t getting better. In this article, we’ll explore the top five reasons why your injury might be lingering longer than expected, and what you can do about it.
Waiting For Your Injury To Get Better:
- It’s a common mistake to simply wait for an injury to heal on its own. If you’ve been sidelined by pain for more than a week, it’s time to take proactive steps towards recovery. The first action you should take is to consult a physiotherapist who can assess the root cause of your injury and recommend a tailored treatment plan. Physiotherapists have the skills to complete an assessment that can tell you what the function is of the muscles, ligaments and joints.
Inadequate Exercise Progression:
- Often, the exercises prescribed during physiotherapy may not be challenging enough to promote healing and rehabilitation. It’s crucial that your exercises are tailored to your specific needs and progressively advanced as your condition improves. If you’re not feeling challenged, speak up and ensure your exercises are adjusted accordingly. If you are a runner who has knee pain; you should be working on single leg and core strengthening exercises and balance. Seated knee extensions are not going to be enough for you.
Ignoring the Root Cause of Your Injury:
- Addressing the root cause of your injury is paramount to achieving lasting relief. Sometimes, the source of pain may not be where you feel it. For instance, shoulder pain could stem from issues in the thoracic spine or ribs. Continuously working on the area that hurts and not addressing the area that is contributing to the pain can be frustrating and creates worry that something “BAD” might be happening.
- Additionally, factors such as stress, sleep quality, and nutrition can impact your body’s ability to heal. If these factors are not addressed, you are missing a major component to your recovery.
Failure to Follow Recommendations:
- Compliance with your physiotherapist’s recommendations is crucial for optimal recovery. Consistently performing prescribed exercises and adhering to activity modifications allows your tissues to adapt and heal effectively. Ignoring recommendations can impede progress and prolong recovery time. We know that life happens: holidays, company comes over, the list goes on. Your physiotherapist will help you modify those tasks and set realistic goals during your busy times. It’s all about making the plan.
Misconceptions About Physiotherapy:
- Beliefs and misconceptions about injuries and treatment methods can hinder progress. It’s important to trust your physiotherapist’s expertise and guidance. Educating yourself about your condition and maintaining a positive mindset can significantly contribute to your recovery journey. We want you to get better and live your best life.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, overcoming a nagging injury requires proactive measures, patience, and collaboration with your healthcare provider. By addressing the underlying causes, progressing your exercises, and embracing a positive mindset, you can take significant strides towards healing and returning to your active lifestyle. Don’t let your injury hold you back any longer—take charge of your recovery journey today.