One of the most unexpected challenges I’ve faced lately is the sheer fatigue during recovery. It’s not just feeling a little tired—it’s the kind of exhaustion that slows everything down, physically and mentally.
I’ve always been someone who powers through, but this phase of recovery is teaching me something different: that healing takes energy, and that rest is a vital part of rebuilding.
Fatigue during recovery isn’t a setback—it’s a signal that your body is doing the hard work of repair. And even though it’s frustrating at times, I’m learning to listen, to trust the process, and to believe that my strength will return, one step at a time.
The Surprise of Post-Injury Fatigue
I thought I’d be further along in my recovery by now. I’ve been doing the work—physical therapy, managing life, and staying as active as I can. But this post-injury fatigue has been constant. And it’s not just physical; it’s mental and emotional, too.
Even small victories don’t seem to shake it. It’s tough, but I remind myself that this is part of the process. The fatigue won’t last forever.
Letting Go of “Doing It All”
I’ve always been the type to juggle everything. But right now? I simply can’t. Between therapy, work, softball season, and recovery, it’s a lot. I’m learning to listen to my body and let go of the pressure to be perfect.
I know that rebuilding stamina after injury takes time. And I know I’ll get there.
What’s Helping Me Right Now
Here are a few things that are helping me cope with this physical and mental fatigue:
- Cupping: It looks like torture, but it’s a good pain! It’s a practice to increase the blood flow in the area to help promote healing and reduce pain.
Cupping at Gaylord Physical Therapy
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Hydration: I’m trying to drink more water in the morning before and after my coffee, and I love my cortisol-reducing drink I make from time to time to change things up.
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Nourishing food: I’ve been making a conscious effort to include protein in every meal or snack that I eat. I’m not depriving myself of things I enjoy; but I’m being more aware now of what I am craving and when.
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Movement: Walking, strength training, spectating at Adrienne’s softball games, and gardening seem to be the things that are keeping me moving these days. My favorite part of the day is my walk at sunset. It’s the reward to my hard work. I cherish that time.
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Sleep: Prioritizing rest without guilt. It’s not going as well as I would like it to, but I am learning how to take cat naps. May and June are just insane months in the year with everything being crammed in for year-end. This year, of course, graduation is a big thing on my mind.
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Self-compassion: Talking to myself like I would talk to a friend. I’m trying to think of what someone else would say to me.
I’d like to get more massage therapy. When my physical therapist spends time working on my stretches and then scrapes the muscles, I cringe and hold my breath, but it provides me with so much more gain when we release those areas.
Trusting the Process
I’m still pushing through—just a little slower than I’m used to. And I’m learning that it’s okay. I’ll start running again when I’m ready. When I do, I trust that my body will remember.
Recovery isn’t just about the destination—it’s about giving yourself the grace to heal.
Have you felt this kind of unexpected fatigue during recovery? Let’s talk about it in the comments—or send me a message if you just need to know you’re not alone.