What is a Motor Vehicle Injury?
After a motor vehicle accident, the most common injuries include whiplash and other types of back and neck pain. Cervical facet joint pain and pain that originates at the discs between the vertebrae are both typical. Other motor vehicle injuries can include:
- Head trauma
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Torn ligaments
- Abrasions and bruising
- Spinal cord injuries
People who have been in motor vehicle accidents may also suffer from stress and PTSD, which can make physical pain symptoms feel worse. Some individuals who have motor vehicle accidents will feel better in a few days or weeks. Others will require long-term treatment or may develop chronic pain related to the accident. We can work with you to help you combat pain and heal from your injuries.
Symptoms of a Motor Vehicle Injury
Some types of motor vehicle injuries cause pain immediately. Others will leave you feeling fine the day of the accident but cause increasing pain over the days after. The symptoms you suffer will depend on the type and severity of your injury, but common symptoms include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Reduced range of movement
- Pain that gets worse when you apply pressure or attempt to move
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Sleep issues
- Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
- Depression and irritability
Each individual’s symptoms are unique. Some people may experience a wide range of symptoms, others just a few. It is important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional at our facility. They can help determine the cause of your pain and help devise a treatment plan that works best for you.
What Causes a Motor Vehicle Injury?
The most common type of injury after a car crash is the acceleration-deceleration injury. After a rear impact collision, which is the most common type of car crash, the vertebrae in your neck overextend. The result is whiplash. Seatbelts make other more serious types of injuries far less likely, but the fact that they restrain you means that you are vulnerable to whiplash.
Other car accident injuries are caused by blunt impact when motor vehicles collide. In cases where seatbelts are not worn, there are two collisions: the first is between the two vehicles. The second occurs when you continue to accelerate before impacting against surfaces inside your car. The result can be spinal cord injuries, bruises, broken bones, and other trauma.
Diagnosing Motor Vehicle Injuries
After a motor vehicle accident, we will first perform a patient interview, where we discuss your medical history and your symptoms. This is followed by a physical exam. Diagnosing some injuries may also require tests that can include X-rays, MRIs, or other imaging technology.
Motor Vehicle Injury Treatment
Prompt treatment after a motor vehicle injury is imperative. Some conditions may linger undiagnosed without a medical examination. This can result in longer healing times or even permanent damage. Depending on your injury and its severity, we can put several complementary treatments into play. Together, they can reduce pain, help you recover your range of movement, and help you heal as completely as possible. Treatments can include:
- Medication
- Chiropractic
- Physical Therapy
- Interventional Treatments
After your examination and diagnosis, you and your doctor will work together to determine a treatment plan that works best for you. By offering treatment options that are customized to you, we can ensure that you get the care that you need to make the best recovery that you can.
Request an Appointment
Have you been in a motor vehicle accident? It’s important to get treatment right away. Seeking care soon can ensure that you are properly compensated for your injuries and that you get the best outcome possible. Request an appointment to come in and discuss your accident, any injuries, and a course of treatment.