Ashmit Patel Opens Up About 12-Month Recovery After Cricket Injury
Ashmit Patel, the actor, has shared a heartfelt reflection on his 12-month recovery journey following a serious injury sustained while playing cricket. In an Instagram post, he recounted the fall that occurred last January, describing it as a pivotal moment that tested both his physical and emotional resilience.
The Fall and Initial Diagnosis
"I never forget that fall last January," Patel expressed, highlighting the immediate pain and uncertainty that followed. The injury involved a torn hamstring, damaged ligaments, and a gash above his eye. Initially, two doctors recommended surgery as the primary solution, suggesting it might be the only way to ensure a full recovery.
However, Patel sought a third opinion, which provided a different perspective. "The third doctor shared that the retraction has not increased to a great extent... so manage it the way it is, and no surgery was required," he shared. This advice gave him hope to avoid surgical intervention.
Choosing the Path of Recovery Without Surgery
Determined to heal naturally, Patel opted for a non-surgical approach, focusing on rest and gradual rehabilitation. "I really wanted to avoid surgery. I chose the daily grind, the small wins, and a belief that my body could heal itself if I did the work," he explained. The treating doctor advised him to rest for 3-4 months before resuming activities like tennis and gymming.
One year later, Patel noted significant progress: "The scars are fading, and the strength is slowly coming back." He emphasized that the journey was not just about physical healing but also mental fortitude, stating, "This wasn't just about a leg. It was about the heart. Looking back, I realise this injury didn't break me, it built me."
Expert Insights on Serious Falls and Recovery
Dr. Sarang Deshpande, a consultant in orthopaedics and joint replacement at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, provided expert commentary on the implications of such injuries. "A sudden fall during sports may seem harmless, but it can cause serious damage beneath the surface," he warned. He explained that muscles can tear, ligaments can stretch or break, and tissues can swell quickly, with pain being immediate but uncertainty about severity being a greater concern.
When scans reveal torn muscles or damaged ligaments, surgery is often suggested as a quick recovery method to stabilize the area and prevent long-term weakness. However, Dr. Deshpande noted that surgery is not always necessary. "The choice depends on joint stability, pain levels, and how the body reacts in the first few weeks," he clarified.
Recovery Without Surgery: A Structured Approach
According to Dr. Deshpande, if the injured area remains stable and shows improvement with rest, many injuries can heal through a structured rehabilitation program. "Gradual exercises help rebuild muscle strength and regain flexibility. The body is quite capable of healing when given enough time and the right support for movement," he asserted.
He also addressed why recovery from muscle and ligament injuries typically takes months. "Soft tissues heal slowly. Muscle fibers and ligaments repair in stages, and pushing too hard too soon can reverse progress. A recovery period of three to four months allows strength to return safely and lowers the chance of reinjury. Patience is crucial," Dr. Deshpande emphasized.
The Role of Mindset in Healing
Dr. Deshpande highlighted the importance of mindset in the recovery process. "Fear of pain or re-injury can hinder healing. Keeping up with small daily improvements builds confidence. When the mind trusts the body again, movement becomes smoother, and recovery speeds up naturally," he explained.
Signs that recovery is progressing well include reduced pain, improved range of motion, better balance, and increased confidence during movement. "Scars fade, strength gradually returns, and everyday activities start to feel normal again," he shared, offering hope to those on similar journeys.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from the public domain and expert insights. Always consult a health practitioner before starting any routine.
