Fatigue after a serious injury is often invisible to other people, which can make it one of the hardest symptoms to explain — and to manage.
Pacing is usually the most effective tool. A simple approach looks like this:
- Break activities into shorter chunks
- Build in planned rest before exhaustion sets in
- Track energy levels through the day to spot patterns
- Adjust the plan gradually, rather than all at once
Pushing through until exhaustion forces a stop usually makes the following days harder, not easier.
Sleep routines, nutrition and gentle physical activity all play a part too, and occupational therapists can help build a realistic schedule around all of these.
