Auto Accident Injuries

What types of injuries happen in a car accident?

The most common injury that occurs during a car accident is whiplash. Whiplash happens when the head is abruptly and forcefully thrown backward and forward during a collision. Whiplash can even occur in low-speed collisions under 20 mph, so it’s best to be evaluated by medical experts if you’ve been in any type of accident.

Signs of whiplash include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Decreased range of motion in your neck
• Neck pain that’s worse with movement
• Headaches
• Tenderness in the shoulders, arms, and upper back
• Tingling or numbness in the arms
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
  
  

Other common injuries caused by auto collisions include:

• Cuts and bruises
• Ligament sprains in the hands, wrists, or shoulders
• Muscle strains in the arms or upper back
• Lower back pain
• Concussions
• Shoulder pain
  
  

With a thorough evaluation at Florida Neuro Pain & Spine Center, you can understand the extent of your injuries, treatment options, and how long your recovery period is expected to last.

How are automobile accident injuries diagnosed?

To accurately diagnose an automobile accident injury, your provider discusses the accident with you to understand the speed you were traveling, the angle of impact, and the discomfort you experienced afterward. They then perform a complete physical exam, including range of motion testing, assessment of your muscle strength, and a neurological screening for concussions.

Additional orthopedic tests are performed to check the amount of injury to the ligaments in your neck — which are the main source of pain in whiplash injuries. Your provider then examines any other injuries you’ve experienced, including cuts, bruises, and other sore joints and muscles.

If necessary, X-rays are ordered to determine the extent of damage to the ligaments in your neck. In some cases, these ligaments can be overstretched during your accident, which may lead to issues with instability in your neck.

How are automobile accident injuries treated?

Based on your exam and any necessary imaging, the medical team outlines a treatment plan to get you out of pain and improve your range of motion. Most treatment plans incorporate rehabilitation, electrical stimulation, soft tissue work, and chiropractic care to relieve pain and improve the function of your neck.

They may recommend at-home exercises or stretches to help you recover more quickly, if appropriate.

Set up an exam today by calling Florida Neuro Pain & Spine Center or booking online.