How Physical Therapy Can Help After an Auto Accident

Did you know that approximately 20–50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries in auto accidents that often result in long-term disabilities? Auto accidents often happen because of factors we can control, such as speed, road conditions, sobriety, and whether or not you wear your seatbelt. The consequences of an auto accident can be complex and involve various collateral damage to other body systems not directly related to the crash itself. Its effects can be traumatizing—not only mentally but also physically.

Physical therapy can help you heal from injuries and relieve your injury-related pain. Read on to learn more about why Breakthru Physical Therapy offers a holistic approach to treating injuries after an auto accident.

What are the Most Common Injuries from an Auto Accident?

An estimated 2 million people sustain permanent injuries in car crashes each year. An accident with a car can be one of the scariest experiences you could ever have. Here are some of the most common injuries seen in car accidents:

• Traumatic brain injuries: A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a catastrophic injury to the brain resulting in long-term damage. Immediately seek treatment before it’s too late.
• Back Injuries: A car crash can cause spinal ligaments, tendons, and muscles to stretch beyond their normal range.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: A spinal cord injury can be devastating to someone who suffers it; these injuries vary greatly in severity and can range from temporary paralysis or numbness (sometimes called “numb bum” syndrome) to quadriplegia-a complete loss of function below the point of impact.
• Fractures and broken bones: It is not surprising that many of these high-impact accidents result in broken bones, given that there are more than six million collisions in the US annually—an average of more than 18,000 incidents per day.
• Neck injuries/ Whiplash: The term “whiplash” refers to various muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries that can result from an automobile accident, including neck pain from damage to the soft tissues of the neck.

If you have been in an auto accident and suffered injuries, you should seek medical care immediately. Clinicians often recommend physical therapy for long-term support and strength, and physical therapists at Breakthru Physical Therapy can help you with an individualized plan.

Why Should You See a Physical Therapist After an Auto Accident?

After a car accident, the first thing you should do is get medical attention. You may have suffered severe injuries or broken bones. However, if you have injury-related pain for up to 3 months or longer after an auto accident, consider seeing a physical therapist. The therapists at Breakthru will listen, assess and provide customized treatment for your symptoms. Suppose anything in your medical history or laboratory tests suggests that you should see a physical therapist for a possible injury or condition related to the accident. In that case, it will be discussed with you for informed and shared decision-making.

When to go to a PT After an Auto Accident?

After an auto accident, the first thing to do is get your injuries assessed by medical experts, preferably in a hospital setting. If you have back or neck pain, you must see a doctor specializing in spine disorders, and a physical therapist may help with muscle soreness.

Physical therapy can ensure that you fully heal from your injuries, even if you think it’s impossible to restore your ability to walk or to have a full range of motion in your affected joints. If your injuries are not severe and will not require surgery, a doctor or physical therapist can provide the treatment after an auto accident.

What are the Types of Physical Therapy Treatments used After an Auto Accident?

There are several different types of physical therapy that you can choose from, including:

• Aquatic Therapy: Aquatic therapy is a great way to help speed up your recovery. This therapy helps reduce gravity on a person, which can help to alleviate pain, increase mobility, and improve strength.
• Vestibular Therapy: Vestibular therapy is another excellent option for those who have suffered from an auto accident. This therapy helps improve balance and stability, as well as reduce dizziness and vertigo.
• Exercise Therapy: Exercise therapy is another excellent way to speed up your recovery after an auto accident. This type of therapy helps improve strength, mobility, and endurance.
• Joint Mobilization: Joint mobilization is one of the most popular treatments physical therapists use to hasten recovery after an auto accident. Promoting flexibility and reducing discomfort entails gently manipulating a person’s joints.

If you or someone you know has been in an accident, then physical therapy may be the right choice. So don’t wait any longer; make an appointment today!

How Long will Physical Therapy Take?

Physical therapy can aid in more efficient and rapid recovery. Depending on the severity of your injury, your treatment plan typically calls for two visits per week to your physical therapist. The entire course of treatment may take several weeks or months.

Many vehicle accident injuries that affect soft tissues, joints, the back, muscles, or ligaments can be successfully treated with PT. To encourage your body’s natural healing process, your physical therapist at Breakthru physical therapy carefully assesses your progress. This can make it easier for you to complete your daily duties quickly and safely.

Why Choose Breakthru for Recovery from an Auto Accident?

Breakthru Physical Therapy offers the most comprehensive treatment for various injuries and conditions, including lower back pain and headaches. With our state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained physical therapists on staff, we are dedicated to providing the best rehabilitation service possible. Our physical therapy treatments are perfect for people who have recently been in a car accident. We offer various types of physical therapy, and help you choose the one that’s best for your needs. Contact our team today and schedule a consultation.