One of the most important aspects to helping your body heal when injured is getting the proper amount of rest and sleep. The healing process takes time and allowing your body to have the rest that it needs to recover will allow you to heal faster.
The recommended amount of sleep is 7-8 hours every night for adults. Getting enough sleep every night will not only help the healing process, but it will also give you a healthier life. Having a healthy immune system is crucial during the recovery period and one way to insure this is by getting the proper amount of sleep every night.
One of the common things that we see in our practice is patients not allowing their bodies enough time to recover from an injury. Often times they try to take on their normal work schedule while healing and although it seems like they can handle it, their bodies will tell us a different story. A lot of injuries reoccur because patients don’t give themselves enough rest or sleep during a rehabilitation program.
Rehabilitating an injury requires a lot of exercise and effort, and you should also make sure to eat healthy and get enough sleep to get a payoff for your recovery. Deep sleep is important because the body has time to repair the muscles and ligaments that were injured and are actively being treated in a rehab program. During the rehabilitation process your body builds your muscles stronger so that they are ready for the next treatment session.
Here are a few key points to help you get 8 hours every night:
- Nightlights and electronic alarms can give off too much light in your bedroom. Try to darken your room as much as possible.
- Avoid watching TV right before going to bed. It causes increased brain activity and can keep you up longer before you fall asleep. Try reading a book or magazine.
- If you’re having trouble falling asleep try to concentrate on the number one and say it over and over to help quiet your thoughts and help you fall asleep. (Just like counting sheep.)
- Natural Supplements for sleep may also help, like Melatonin. (Make sure to check with a healthcare professional first.)
Remember, 7-8 hours of sleep each night can not only help your body heal during the recovery period, but it’s also a great way to improve your immune function and help you stay alert during the day.
Have a happy and healthy week!