Car Accident Injuries

Car Accident Injuries

DEFINITION OF ACCIDENT:  an unfortunate incident that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally, typically resulting in damage or injury.

Don't underestimate the injuries that even a small low-speed accident can cause.   that can last a lifetime,

Current research bears that chronic back and neck pain is due to auto accidents almost 37% of the time and that these auto injury traumas are a primary contributor.  These types of injuries are called whiplash injuries in laymen's terms, whether the injury is to the neck or the back.

What type of pain do people feel?

Generally, my office treats "soft tissue" injuries of the body.  These injuries are to the structures of the body that are not hard tissue or bone.  So, the injuries are to the muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, cartilage, and nerves.  Often times, these types of injuries cause pain which is sharp in nature, burning, radiating, or aching.  Other symptoms include stiffness, headaches, shoulder pain, tightness, and loss of balance.  Advanced imaging could be necessary to diagnose the injury. Please don't underestimate the severity of these types of injuries as if you leave them alone untreated, they can become chronic and lasting forever.  

Whiplash is one of the most common vehicular-accident related injuries. This is a neck sprain/strain syndrome and it occurs when there is an abrupt jerking of the head, or body either forward or backward.  Treatment usually requires chiropractic and physiotherapy treatments.

What we see quite often with car accident injuries. Common spinal injuries include disc herniation and or movement of the vertebra forward or back.  These injuries which cause bones to move forward and back are often the result of damaged supporting ligaments.  The shifts of the vertebra may cause pinched nerves, pain, and weakness. In some rare cases, this injury can lead to a loss of bowel and bladder control, which is a medical emergency.

Disc herniations occur when the jelly donut-like discs between the vertebra rupture and cause the jelly-like substance to come out.  When the disc jelly comes out or protrudes, it can push on structures like the spinal cord or nerves. This injury may cause weakness and numbing of arms or legs. Chiropractic treatment works wonderfully on this type of injury.

How to treat Treat Chronic Pain after an Accident

When the pain becomes chronic, it is generally much more difficult to treat.  One reason is that the muscles and joints become chronically inflamed from the injury.  Thus, if you are feeling any stiffness or discomfort or pain, it is critical to seek the advice of a chiropractor who is experienced in these types of injuries and how to treat them.

Please contact an emergency chiropractor if you or someone you know has had a car accident.