When a person experiences an injury it can be quite traumatic. The person may have been involved in a high risk sports activity at the time, and unfortunately even with research and advancements in the field of sports medicine these can still be painful, and it can take some time to achieve a full recovery. For example, someone recovering from a hand injury would require Hand Physiotherapy and plenty of time, as there are many small bones and joints in that area. Whatever the cause – and whoever was to blame – the implications can be long lasting.
It’s important to think of the future when our lives receive a curve-ball. There may be a new normal to accommodate, be it temporarily or permanently. This article suggests four steps a person can take as they move into the future.
1. Seek a Legal Advocate
If the injury occured as a result of an accident, there may be someone else to blame. In that case, a personal injury lawyer would seek to prove a case of negligence, and to apply for financial compensation.
The person who has received the injury will be able to delegate the whole process to the professional. According to the attorneys at The Clark Law Office clients will feel reassured if their chosen firm has a proven track record of winning large compensation cases. The very things the claimant has battled with – emotional distress, pain and suffering – will be incorporated into the legal claim. If there is a ‘no win no fee’ policy, the injured party won’t need to worry about legal expenses either.
The attorney will ideally have experience of similar injury cases, and a working knowledge of the medical terminology. They will know which documents to submit and when, and will even be the client’s voice in court if things get that far.
2. Let the Medical Services Help
Anyone who has been injured should see their doctor immediately. They will be able to prescribe whatever medication or treatment is applicable. This could range from physiotherapy to counselling. Such drugs as antidepressants or tranquilisers may be prescribed if the person is suffering psychologically. If the medical condition is complex, there may be a referral for scans or more specialised help.
If there is a legal case pending, a consultant’s medical report will need to be sought. This will be of greater value in court than the doctor’s opinion, as the doctor will only be qualified in general medical matters.
If the doctor believes an injured person is experiencing symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) they may be referred for CBT (Cognitive Based Therapy) or a PTSD support group.
3. Communicate with Friends and Family
People should talk, rather than giving in to a temptation to withdraw from people. There will be little value in adopting a ‘victim mindset’ or becoming excessively introverted.
People will wish to know what happened to you, and to offer their help. They may suggest a few social evenings or even deliver the odd meal to your door. Don’t be afraid to ask for lifts or groceries. It’s not a sign of weakness to accept peoples’ kindness. They want to do it – it’s what friends are for!
4. Maintain a Routine
People need to be realistic about what they can and can’t do. There may be some physical limitations in place, even if they are just temporary. Having said that, the more normal a person can make their day, the sooner they will recover. An injured person may not be fit enough to use the gym, but such things as resistance bands may be a safe option. People will feel better if they stay active, and any recommended physio exercises should be performed.
Folk should be disciplined over their sleep patterns too, even if they are temporarily off work. Our body clocks do not like us varying our sleep schedule by more than half an hour. It is advisable to avoid alcohol as this can adversely affect our sleep. Nicotine is a stimulant too, so smoking should be avoided.
A healthy diet is advisable as well. What we eat affects our moods. The more healthy our bodies are, the better placed they will be to recover after an injury.
Over time the full injury will be assessed. Such things as treatment and timescales will be discussed. People then discover if and when they can return to work, and whether their home will need any extra medical equipment. If a legal case is successful, justice will be done and there will be compensation paid. This will help with the loss of earnings and medical expenses.
Anyone who has been on this journey will need to know that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. Either there will be a full recovery or help in place, in order for you to live the best possible life.