Car accidents are far too common despite the advances in automobile technology. And the injuries sustained from motor vehicle accidents are far too real. Despite the new technology for self driving cars, it is not readily available to the public. Thus, human error is still at large and the main cause for auto accidents. It is likely that anyone in the vehicle during the accident may be diagnosed with one or more of the most common car accident injuries. And how to treat them depends on the type of injury sustained.
1. Whiplash
Whiplash may be the most common car accident injury. Whiplash occurs when your body is pushed into motion by sudden force. Symptoms of whiplash include: Neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and hip and leg pain.
The cause of the pain may be due to a misalignment in your spine. The force of the other car is transferred into your body and pushes the ligaments in your spine out of place. Your muscles may also have micro tears. The combination of spinal misalignment and muscle tears leads to the extreme pain you might be feeling. Over time these injuries will heal, but they can heal wrong which could lead to chronic pain.
How To Treat Whiplash
You pain is a symptom of a deeper problem. We recommend that you make an appointment with a chiropractor. Chiropractors are trained to manipulate and adjust the spine into its proper alignment. Many chiropractors also use massage therapy to reduce inflammation in the muscles to promote healing. Treating and recovering from whiplash may take several months. Physical Therapy may also be required in conjunction with chiropractic care.
2. Herniated Disc
If you’re experiencing pain along your spine, neck or back, it could also be a sign that during the car accident you sustained a herniated disc. A herniated disc happens when vertebrae in your spine are either shifted out of place or ruptured. Chiropractors are also trained to treat herniated disc through various methods including decompression therapy.
3. Scrapes, Cuts and Open Wounds
Scrapes, cuts and open wounds are also common car accident injuries. These might be received from broken glass, other projectiles (Phone, keys, coffee mugs), or a forced impact (hitting your head on the steering wheel). These types of injury could be minor, or they could be severe.
For open wounds, you should seek medical help immediately after the car accident. If an ambulance arrives, have the paramedics take a look at your injuries and apply proper treatment. If the injuries are too severe to treat on site you may be taken by ambulance to the nearest emergency room.
4. Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries can happen on immediate impact in a car accident. It can be from hitting your head on the steering wheel or the impact of the airbag. Regardless of cause, these are injuries that could cause lasting complications in the future. If left untreated or not treated correctly, traumatic brain injuries could cause permanent damage.
Symptoms of Head and Brain injuries include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Abnormal sleeping (either too little or too much)
- Speech Problems
- Sensitivity to light
Treatment for Head and Brain Injuries
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following the car accident, we recommend seeking medical help as soon as possible. If it’s been a few days, make an appointment with a neurologist. For severe symptoms, go to the emergency room.
5. Broken Bones and Ribs
Unfortunately, broken bones is another severe common car accident injury. The best way to treat a broken bone or fracture is to go immediately to the ER after the car accident. The paramedics on the ambulance will be able to put a splint on if necessary and assist in transportation to the ER. Depending on the broken bone, you may need a cast and it will take several months for it to heal properly.
What if I don’t have any serious car accident injuries?
We highly recommend getting checked out by your Medical Provider or your chiropractor after a car accident. Even if you display no visual injuries such as scrapes, cuts, or broken bones, you may be suffering from whiplash or a head injury. Symptoms of whiplash may not show until a few days to a week after the accident. If you leave an injury like whiplash untreated it can turn into chronic pain like arthritis or other conditions later in life.
How RxWellness Spine & Health Can Help?
We are trained professionals in chiropractic care and physical therapy at RxWellness Spine & Health. Our chiropractic doctors will take x-rays of your spine to find the injury in your spine from the car accident. The doctor will give you a treatment plan based on the severity of your injury. Our treatment plans and services utilize massage therapy and physical therapy so that you can heal quicker and strengthen your injured muscles.
As the top rated chiropractic clinic in NOVA, we are experts on Whiplash and herniated discs, two of the most common car accident injuries, and how to treat them efficiently.
If you’ve been in a car accident recently, call us today at 703-904-9666 and schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. We are located on 950 Herndon Parkway, Suite 130, Herndon, VA 20170.
See Also
10 Reasons to See a Car Accident Chiropractor for Pain Relief
Car Accident Seat Belt Injuries-Chiropractic Treatment
5 Reasons to Have Physical Therapy After A Car Accident
Treating Painful Muscle Spasms After A Car Accident
Dizzy After A Car Accident? Your Chiropractor Can Help
How To Treat Back Pain After A Car Accident
What Should I Do For Whiplash After A Car Accident?