One of the most devastating outcomes of a serious accident is the loss of your mobility. Even if temporary, difficulty moving can impact your independence and compromise your health.
Understanding some of the ways that mobility loss can affect you may empower you to find solutions to prevent your newfound challenges from undermining your quality of life.
Mental and physical health
Mobility loss can complicate everything from daily tasks to your work responsibilities. The effects can be far reaching and impact both your mental and physical health. Feelings of inadequacy and frustration over not being able to do the things you normally do can cause depression, anxiety and behavioral disorders.
Physically, you may notice more phantom pains, ulcers and gastro-intestinal issues. You may have less sexual drive and difficulty sleeping. Your risks of blood clots and pneumonia also grow when compromised mobility results in a more sedentary lifestyle.
Activity and movement
Even if your ability to move has changed, find creative ways to stay as active as you can throughout your recovery. You can work with your health care provider to assess the likelihood of making a full recovery and to learn about ways to exercise your body that will not compromise your health or safety.
According to HelpGuide, beginning an exercise routine will take time and commitment. Practicing consistency and gradually increasing your activity level can help you build endurance. Even if you cannot physically exercise, doing some mental exercises can help you overcome negative thoughts about your loss of mobility. Guarding your mental health may facilitate your effort to improve your physical health.