Transitioning to life following a spinal cord injury is a big adjustment. Everyone moves forward and adapts at their own pace. While this initial adjustment period will bring on new (and, at times, frustrating) challenges, a new sense of balance, control and independence comes with time and practice.
Heading Home
Going home for the first time after experiencing a spinal cord injury can be comforting for some and upsetting for others. You may find having to make changes to your daily routine makes you feel like you’re doing things for the very first time; and, in many ways, you are. Being prepared to approach activities differently is part of the healing process. Take your time and give yourself room to let go of the old and bring in the new.
Physical Changes
Having a spinal cord injury means getting used to moving your body in different ways. Inpatient rehabilitation will help you regain your strength and stamina as you learn new ways to do your daily activities.
At first, you may need to ask for help more often than you’d like, but in time, you may find you can do more by yourself than you thought. Aside from maneuvering with your injury, it is important you take care of your physical health in general, which includes staying active and maintaining a healthy diet.
Finding Catheter Supply Companies
It’s important to prioritize taking care of your bladder. Performing good catheterization practices and finding ideal urological products will not only help reduce the risk of health complications but will also allow you to participate in many of the activities you enjoy, including work, travel, social events, and intimacy.
The right catheter supplier will help you find products you need and offer guidance to ensure your supplies are covered by your insurance.
Psychological Changes
Managing your expectations will help you handle the psychological shifts that come after experiencing a spinal cord injury. As much as your body has to adjust to its new normal, so does your mind.
You may find yourself having more bad days when you first start out. Remember, there is no right way to cope or move forward. Be patient and gentle with yourself. You have gone through a lot and adjustment takes time. Let your healthcare provider know if you feel you are depressed or overwhelmed. There are resources available to help.
Redefining Your Independence
At first, you may feel like you’ve lost your independence because you can’t do all the things you used to be able to do on your own. During rehabilitation, you might be surprised by the number of things you can still do, even though you might have to learn to do them differently.
But there may also be things you just can’t do alone. If asking for help is difficult for you, remember that no one is entirely independent. Everyone needs help with certain things in life, and that’s why it’s important to feel confident asking for help when you need it. You, and only you, are in charge of your health, your life, and how you want to live it. Be patient with yourself and learn to have a curious posture in life, looking for those areas and experiences that bring you new life.
Disclaimer: Information presented here is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. It is important to seek proper medical advice from a licensed medical professional regarding any of the medical conditions or supply offerings referenced.
