Many people have a fear of flying – but when it comes to heading out on the highway, most don’t think twice about the risks.
Riding in a motor vehicle presents an increased risk of getting into an accident and suffering orthopedic injuries. In fact, vehicle crashes are the number-one cause of unintentional injury in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While there are many ways to reduce your risk of a car accident injury – such as abstaining from drinking and driving, using seat belts, and improving teen driving safety – a certain level of risk still remains.
Common Injuries from a Car Crash
Neck injuries such as whiplash, back injuries such as herniated discs, and soft-tissue injuries to muscles or tendons are all common musculoskeletal injuries caused by car crashes.
The discs of the spine act as tiny cushions between each set of two adjacent vertebrae in the back. When any of these discs are pushed out of position or torn from traumatic impact, it can result in painful or debilitating spinal cord injuries.
Damage to the spinal cord can cause reduced sensation in the legs, arms, hands, or feet. If certain areas of the spinal column are broken or severely injured, can even cause paralysis.
Muscle strains can sometimes be managed by the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). Physical therapy techniques, such as myofascial release, can help to mitigate pain and restore a natural range of motion.
Diagnosing Car Accident Injuries
A reputable doctor will evaluate your medical condition using a comprehensive set of diagnostics. X-rays are better suited for identifying broken bones, whereas Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is ideal for detecting the presence of torn ligaments. MRI scans generate cross-sectional images of internal organs.
If you’re experiencing tingling, muscle weakness, or neck or back pain, your physician may order these services to diagnose your condition. Delaware Back Pain & Sports Rehabilitation Centers has the tools and experience necessary to treat any abnormalities or injuries in the musculoskeletal and/or nervous systems.
Physical Medicine Doctors in Delaware
The seasoned experts at Delaware Back Pain & Sports Rehabilitation Centers apply a multidisciplinary method toward healing people who have been injured in a car accident.
One service that sets our clinic apart is that we have a special Legal Concierge department for patients who have been injured in an accident. We will help with your workers’ compensation claim, help with testimony in court, subpoenas, legal advice, and more.
Our staff provides pain-management treatment and counseling to address all aspects of the injury – mind and body – because traumatic injuries often create residual psychological effects. Plus, we understand that time is of the essence when it comes to auto injuries; that’s why we strive to see patients within 48 hours.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at any of our convenient locations. We have offices throughout Delaware, including Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Smyrna, and Middletown. We look forward to getting you on the road to recovery and excellent health again.