One of the most popular hobbies in the world, cycling is both a form of exercise and exhilarating, soothing, or adventurous activity for millions of people across the globe. Sadly, though, it’s also a hobby that can occasionally result in injury. You might come off your bike at high speed or otherwise, strain or tear a muscle on a gruelling ride up a mountain. In whatever scenario, it’s important that you plan out your recovery period to save you time, stress, and money and to get you back in the saddle as soon as possible. This article shows you how to do it in five easy steps.
Medical Attention
You’ll more than likely need to seek some medical help after your cycling accident. This is the case even if you feel that your injury was quite minor, as you never know what internal damage might have been done after coming off your bike. Make sure that you’re also following the right medical protocols, including disinfecting grazes and open wounds, and keeping your weight off torn muscles.
Salvage Your Bike
Many bike accidents tend to happen at high speeds, including when you’re descending a hill or taking to the off-road on your mountain bike. Sometimes these accidents can render your bike a little broken and battered or, in the worst cases, entirely mangled. It’s important though that you salvage your bike so that you can either have it repaired or you can dispose of it responsibly after your accident.
Take Time to Recover
Depending on the severity of your accident, you may well need time to recover from the unpleasantness of your accident. This is the part that many cyclists across the world who’ve experienced an accident might struggle with but recuperation time is key to recovery. If you need to take a week off work, make sure to call your manager and highlight your situation. Get a doctor’s note as proof if necessary. Be kind to yourself in this period and make sure you’re not making your injuries any worse through your actions.
Seek Compensation
Some bicycle accidents are simply freak occurrences for which no one is to blame, but many are in fact the fault of a third party who you may be able to claim damages and compensation from. You can understand a little more about making a claim with specialists in the field by contacting the-compensation-experts.co.uk online or on the phone to discuss your case; they’ll be the people to tell you how to proceed with your claim.
Enjoy Familial Support
After any kind of accident, your family will be at hand to soothe your injuries and calm your mind. They’ll be able to offer that all-important emotional and logistical support that’ll help you make your recovery as painlessly and joyfully as possible. Some injuries can actually make you feel closer to your family, pulling them together around you in a caring and nourishing circle that’ll help keep you positive as you recuperate.
These five tips are all ways to help you recover and recuperate following an accident in the saddle.
Guest post by Maggie Hammond
Author: Maggie Hammond is a retired nurse and freelance writer, exploring and writing in retirement. An advocate for public health and nursing qualifications, she feels passionate about raising awareness of the current strain on public health organisations.
