3 Ways to Make Your Injury Suck Less
November 23, 2022 | Words by Liz Francis
Key Word: LESS. I’m not here to tell you that being injured will be sunshine and rainbows if you do these three things, because the truth is injuries do suck. Plain and simple.
I’m injured as I’m writing this, so I can vouch for that. I’ve had intermittent shooting pain in my right shoulder for almost two years. We’ve yet to find out exactly what’s wrong with it or when this injury happened — I’m the lucky Patient Zero. After exhausting all other options, I’m getting an exploratory procedure done next month to try to figure this thing out.
Like I said, it sucks. However, I have found ways to make it suck less, so I thought I’d share them with you.
30 Minutes of Movement
Getting 30 minutes of movement every day has been really important to me during this time. Just because I can’t do my normal routine doesn’t mean I need to throw my hands up and give in to being sedentary (I also literally can’t throw my hands up, but you get the point). My injury is pretty limiting, so even if this means walking, stretching, or sitting on a bike, getting some movement in really makes me feel better. For us fitness lovers, not being able to go to the gym is like a second grader having to sit out during recess. Turn on a podcast, pick a movement (your dog votes for walks), and make these 30 minutes a priority in your day!Try New Things
I know this one sounds cliché, but hear me out: Going from spending an hour or two at the gym every day to nothing leaves us with a lot of extra time on our hands. This is a great opportunity to play the guitar that collects dust in your corner or open the book that’s been sitting on your bedside table since last year. Reverse psychology yourself into thinking this is what you wanted all along: “Yes, I finally have time to take up bird watching like I’ve always wanted to!”Do Something About It
I regret not doing something about my shoulder sooner. I kept telling myself it would just go away with time. Well, I’m not a doctor and — shocker — that didn’t happen. It got worse. Go to physical therapy, get professional opinions, and do something about the issue at hand before it escalates. Pushing through the pain is not a healing remedy, take it from me.
If you’re dealing with an issue like I am, I hope you’re able to find peace knowing that it won’t last forever. It will get better; things take time! Until then, enjoy longer walks and learn how to knit your grandma a sweater — she’ll love it! I’m sending all the good vibes your way. Feel free to send some back in my direction!
