6 Warning Signs That You Need Treatment

Accidents can leave behind lasting physical injuries that may not become apparent until days or even weeks after the incident. Many people experience aches and pains, but knowing when it’s time to seek treatment can be difficult. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that indicate you need professional help to avoid further damage or discomfort. Physical therapists and chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, especially after an accident. Here we will discuss some common warning signs that indicate it’s time to seek treatment and how this can help you get back to feeling your best.

Headaches

One of the most common injuries sustained in a car accident is a headache. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as whiplash, concussion, or neck and back injuries. While an occasional headache isn’t cause for concern, if you have frequent, long-lasting, or excruciating headaches, this is a red flag that you should take seriously, especially after an accident.

Chiropractors and physical therapists can help alleviate the pain by providing treatments and therapies tailored to your specific needs, such as spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and other techniques. These can help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches caused by many different factors. Chiropractors and physical therapists may also use exercises or stretches to help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected areas, which can also help reduce pain and discomfort. Referrals to neurologists or other specialists may also be needed after a car accident depending on the symptoms.

 

Swelling

One of the most common reasons for swelling after an accident is an injury to the soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and stiffness in the affected area. It’s essential to seek medical attention after an accident to prevent further damage and alleviate any swelling or pain. Common at-home treatments include ice packs or cold therapy and compression therapy. Exercises and stretches provided by a professional can also help to improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and promote healing.

 

Neck Pain 

Neck stiffness is another common problem, especially following an accident. Whiplash can result in swelling and inflammation, making it difficult for the neck to move properly. In more severe cases, whiplash can cause muscle strains or even tears, which can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. The sudden stopping or impact can also cause muscles and ligaments in the neck to contract forcefully, causing misalignments in the spine, which can lead to further discomfort and stiffness. It is important to seek medical attention and treatment for a stiff neck after a car accident to prevent further damage and to promote healing.

One common method to treat this ailment is manual therapy involving massage, mobilization, or manipulation. By working to release tension and improve mobility, manual therapy can help reduce pain and stiffness in the neck. Another treatment method frequently used is exercise therapy. This involves a targeted program of stretches and exercises designed to improve range of motion, build strength, and reduce pain in the neck. With regular practice, exercise therapy can help individuals improve their posture, ease their pain, and reduce the risk of future neck stiffness.

 

Vision impairment

Whiplash or a concussion from accidents can also damage the nerves that control vision, leading to blurriness or other vision problems. Symptoms like vision blurriness may not immediately appear after the accident, so it’s important to stay alert to any changes in the following days. If even mild vision impairment does occur, physical therapists and chiropractors may recommend strengthening and stretching the muscles in the neck to increase flexibility and range of motion. Techniques like massage, joint mobilization, or electrical stimulation can also help reduce pain and inflammation. Imaging and further testing may be ordered if symptoms don’t improve.

 

Trouble Sleeping

Following an accident, some people experience trouble sleeping. This could be due to injuries, which can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position and may cause pain or discomfort throughout the night. Anxiety and stress levels may increase after an accident, due to dealing with insurance companies, medical appointments, and legal issues. Trouble sleeping can make your physical injuries worse as your body struggles to recover. If you can’t seem to catch a restful night, it’s probably time to seek help.

Luckily, at Accident Treatment Centers, we work with your insurance company and legal council while we treat your physical injuries. Our one-stop shop works to provide you with peace of mind and physical comfort so that you can get back to a good night’s sleep. Our doctors are experienced at recommending the optimal sleep positions for your healing so that you can heal sooner.

 

Chest Pain

Chest pain is always a cause for concern, but after an accident, it’s especially important to seek treatment. Even if you suspect that it’s just due to bruising from a seatbelt, there may be underlying causes that are hiding below the surface. Doctors will run a variety of tests to ensure that your heart, lungs, and other organs are all functioning properly. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when there is chest pain involved, particularly following a traumatic event such as a car accident.

 

Don’t delay your health

By working together, chiropractors, physical therapists and other health care providers can provide a comprehensive approach to treating injuries after a car accident, helping patients recover more quickly and effectively. The sooner you get help, the more successful your treatment will be and the sooner you will get back to feeling like yourself. If you or a loved one is looking for an experienced healthcare team, click here to learn more about what our services can do for you.