AFTER THE ACCIDENT

Accidents happen quickly.  Often times patients don't remember much from the incident itself.  After gathering yourself and making sure that you are no longer in danger its time to start making decisions.  The police will typically called for initial medical evaluation and accident documentation.  It is very common for victims of car accidents to have surging adrenaline and to be experiencing little to no pain in the immediate aftermath only to develop symptoms in the hours or days after the accident.  Others experience immediate pain and distress.   Should you go to the hospital?


While it is never a bad idea to get an initial medical evaluation, a visit to the hospital or urgent care is recommended for anyone experiencing severe headaches, dizziness, changes in vision, numbness or weakness in face or extremities, bleeding, severe bruising and severely restricted motion.  It is also recommended if your head or body made contact with the airbag, windshield or dashboard.

DID I SUFFER A WHIPLASH INJURY?

Anytime the body experiences rapid acceleration/deceleration there is a chance that a whiplash injury has occurred.  Obvious symptoms include:


  • Neck pain
  • Limited/painful range of motion
  • Headaches
  • Tightness extending to the shoulders
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Pain that increases while holding a single position without moving
  • Tingling/numbness in the extremities


Other symptoms are more subtle and reveal themselves on thorough examination:


  • Muscles that are tender to the touch
  • Diminished strength


All of these signs and symptoms suggest a whiplash injury.  An estimated 45% of people who suffer from chronic neck pain attribute their pain to a vehicle crash in their past. 


Specialized treatment for whiplash injuries is key to full recovery and to minimize the risk of chronic pain in the years to come.

OTHER TYPES OF INJURIES

While neck injuries are most common, patients frequently suffer other types of injuries with symptoms including:


  • Back pain
  • Extremity pain
  • Difficulty bending and lifting
  • Disturbed balance
  • Buzzing/ringing ears
  • Diminished mobility


Our offices evaluate and treat all of these injuries.