While UK roads are considerably safer now than in days gone by, car accidents are still a reality and a risk to be taken seriously – an average of 5 people are involved in fatal crashes on UK roads each day, with someone being either killed or seriously injured approximately every 16 minutes.
It’s important to take preventative safety measures to avoid danger on the roads, but what can you do to speed up recovery if you are unfortunate enough to end up in a serious car accident?
Work on your mental health: While being involved in a car accident can be devastating for your physical health, it can also wreak havoc on your wellbeing and negatively affect your mental health.
If you want to ensure that you recover as quickly and smoothly as possible, take some time for yourself and don’t hesitate to discuss any anxieties or troubling thoughts with trusted friends, family or psychiatric professionals.
If you were in an accident through no fault of your own, consider making a personal injury claim to get the compensation you deserve and get back on the road to good physical and mental wellbeing.
Attend any follow-up appointments: To ensure that your recovery goes smoothly and according to plan, ensure that you stick to any treatment plans assigned to you by a doctor. You’ll need to follow your treatment plan to the letter, including taking any prescribed medications as instructed and attending any and all follow-up appointments that have been arranged, even if you feel as though you’ve already recovered. If you feel that your plan is not working, discuss this with your doctor and try to adapt it to your changing needs throughout the recovery process.
Set a physical therapy regime: As part of your road to recovery, consider enlisting the help of a physical therapist, who will be able to create a personalised treatment program to complement your doctor’s treatment plan. It’s important to stay active and complete regular physical therapy sessions if you want to recover quickly.
Avoid intensive physical exercise: Avoid physical training during your recovery unless it’s been explicitly sanctioned by your doctor and physical therapist. Undertaking strenuous physical exercise too soon after being involved in an accident can prolong your recovery time and lead to further serious injury.
Follow a healthy diet: While it can be tempting to binge on fast food and unhealthy comfort food when you’re feeling down in the dumps, try to stick to a healthy, balanced diet and stay well hydrated. A nutrient-rich diet can directly boost the efficacy of your treatment plan and physical therapy regime, so remember to stay healthy and hydrated.
