Experiencing a neck injury is more than just a painful event. It can bring your entire life to a grinding halt, and affect every area of your life. From your productivity at work, to your ability to get around, or even get sleep, a neck injury is nothing to be taken lightly.
In extreme cases, a neck injury can even lead to losing the functionality of your limbs. That’s why, it’s so important that you follow the right steps following such as serious injury. Recovering from a neck injury whether it’s a result of a car accident or a slip and fall, will require professional assistance, rest, and a lot of patience.
If you’ve recently suffered a neck injury, here are some of the things you should avoid at all costs.
Hoping Symptoms Will “Go Away”
As much as you might like to believe that your symptoms will go away on their own, the truth is that this is rarely the case. You will require special care, which starts with getting a full scan and diagnosis. A professional will tell you what the correct course of action is, whether you’re required to avoid certain activities, and whether you need to wear a neck brace. Additionally, you may require special appointments with an osteopath, or physical therapist.
The right course of action will vary depending on your unique circumstances. However, one thing’s for certain—ignoring your neck injury is not a solution.
Strenuous Exercise
Strenuous activity and exercise are certainly not recommended when you’ve experienced a neck injury. You could seriously injure yourself further, and even find yourself immobile. While light walking is probably acceptable, full-fledged wide-range movement or lifting could be a disaster.
High-impact exercises that involve your neck, are to be avoided until your health care provider otherwise instructs. Instead of exercise, focus on stretching, and especially rest. The more you rest now, the faster you’ll heal, and the sooner you’ll be able to get back to your regular exercise program.
Prolonged Sedentary Activities
One of the most common misconceptions about a neck injury is that you should stay in one place without moving at all. And while rest is undoubtedly essential for the healing process, prolonged immobility is not. A decreased range of motion in the neck will lead to increased stiffness and more pain. Instead, engage in light stretching and light movement, to promote circulation and flexibility.
Gradually increase your activity as long as you don’t experience any pain, and above all, always follow your physical therapists’ recommendations above all else. Remember, healing will take time, and plenty of patience, however, with enough self-care, you’ll be back to your old self and pain-free.
