Car accidents happen so quickly. It's loud, fast, and thunderous. Then everything's different. You emerge from the wreckage slightly changed. You can feel the mental and emotional scar in your chest, and your body may feel discombobulated. It's important to get back to normal as quickly as possible, but, when it comes to exercise, you might have to start slow depending on your unique circumstances.
The Effects of Car Accidents
Soft tissue injuries are the most common effects of an auto accident. This includes injuries to the connective tissues of the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Ahlander Injury Law explains, “Auto accidents can cause injuries which can range from minor whiplash injuries to broken bones, severe spinal injuries, and even death.” Whiplash is a frequent auto accident injury to the soft tissues of the upper back and neck which makes it difficult to move the head.
Drivers and passengers usually scream or shriek during an accident which can cause damage deep in your diaphragm and to the muscles in the chest. This may explain why you feel out of breath after the event. Cuts, scrapes, and head injuries are also common. Traumatic injuries like these can make it painful and dangerous to workout.
Aquatic Exercises
You'll need to get permission from your doctor to start physical exercise. Then you'll want to start with low-impact workouts. Your buoyancy will reduce strain on your achy joints and muscles. And there's a reduced chance of you moving too fast, which can potentially aggravate car accident injuries. In The Swim supports this, saying, “Water exercise is low impact, meaning it is easier on your body than many other exercises, with less chance of further injury from falls or stumbles. There are many injuries that respond well to water exercises and swimming.” You may be out of your comfort zone, but it is recommended to sign up for guided aqua therapy classes at a gym near you.
Take a Walk
Make sure to buy some comfortable shoes. Now go for a walk. The low-impact exercise is easy on the joints and will literally get you back on your feet. Plus, it is one of the best ways to burn fat in case you were immobilized after your accident. There are plenty of uplifting hormonal benefits to a walk in the park, as well. Just make sure to get permission from your doctor first. Better yet, have your doctor scribble down a walking schedule for you.
Stretching
Stretching can help alleviate the pain of achy bones. Your tightened tendons may be pulling on your muscles and joints. Stretching can help put your body back into alignment, and it's low-impact. Elongating the muscles can also help break up internal scar tissue to restore range of motion. Real Simple explains its importance: “It can improve your range of motion, increase circulation, and calm your mind—which may help fend off injuries and illness, as well as bring on a better night’s sleep.” Consult your doctor then take a stretching course with a professional instructor.
No one wants to be in an accident, or have their health slide because of an accident. In case you are in one, it is recommended to check in with your primary doctor, even if you don't feel any injuries at the moment. Low-impact exercise routines will help to keep your muscles loose and help them to heal.
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