Yes, even slow and low impact accidents can cause pain.
Read more to be aware of what to do after a car or motor vehicle accident
to make sure you set yourself up for the BEST POSSIBLE LONG-TERM OUTCOMES.
Experiencing a motor vehicle accident can be a traumatic event that leaves you with physical injuries and emotional distress. However, seeking proper treatment after a motor vehicle accident is crucial for a successful recovery.
I have laid out some important steps to take/things to consider after an accident.
1. Immediate Medical Attention:
After a motor vehicle accident, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent, but can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated. At Moderni Spine I can assess potential underlying injuries and get your treatment plan started right away making sure you are on the best track to recovery.
Don't let the adrenaline (fight or flight hormone) mask your injuries. It is very common, especially in low impact accidents, for the pain to not set in until the day or a few days-week after once the initial "fight or flight" rush is over.
Significant accidents in which you have significant bruising especially on the chest/abdomen, hit your head, bleeding wounds, severe pain, numbness/tingling, incontinence (urinated or had a bowel movement without knowing) should be emergently evaluated by ambulance/hospital care. Following up with a specialist, like here at Moderni Spine, I can take it from there.
Remember: Just because you get walk out the car without and bruises or bleeding, does not mean you are ok. Having early documentation of your accident, your injuries and symptoms helps us keep track of the progression and keep a closer eye on you. We can start treatment sooner than later to avoid chronic (long-standing) issues.
2. Comprehensive Evaluation:
Following the initial assessment, I may recommend further work up to assess hidden injuries or underlying conditions. This may involve diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. The results will help determine the appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific pain management needs.
3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:
Motor vehicle accidents can lead to various musculoskeletal injuries, including sprains, strains, fractures, and soft tissue damage. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are often prescribed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore strength and function. I will help collaborate your care with a skilled physical therapy group and they will design a personalized treatment program that may include exercises, manual therapy, and other modalities to aid in your recovery. This is one of the most important phases of recovery after accidents.
4. Pain Management:
Pain management plays a crucial role in the treatment process after a motor vehicle accident. Depending on the severity of your pain, there are many approaches that I may take with your care. These options are discussed with you, reasoning on why I feel specific options are best. Treatment may include over-the-counter pain medications, prescription medications, physical therapy, heat or cold therapy, and alternative techniques such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. Other minimally invasive options may include laser therapy, trigger point injections, nerve blocks, and spinal procedures are also options (steroid epidural injections, ablation procedures). The invasiveness of the procedure or treatment usually increases as we try least invasive options first. However, the main goal is to get you back to your more normal self sooner than later. Therefore, sometimes it is appropriate to jump to other procedures types initally depending on the underyling issue and type of pain.
Everyone is so different. I understand that completely, and at Moderni Spine I make sure your plan is customized to not only your needs but your comfortability.
5. Psychological Support:
In addition to physical injuries, motor vehicle accidents can also result in emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Seeking psychological support from a mental health professional can help individuals cope with the emotional aftermath of the accident. Therapy, counseling, or support groups can provide a safe space to express feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards emotional healing. I can help you facilitate this if needed and make sure we get you into the right type of treatment.
In conclusion, don't let it go. Get treatment, even if you think that your injuries may be minor. If they affect you daily, or you feel like you are not operating like your normal self since a accident, come be seen. It is never too late to come in for evaluation, even if it is years since your injury, but care right away can help you avoid the years of unwinding the pain if you let it fester.
Recovering from a motor vehicle accident requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. By seeking immediate medical attention, following through with recommended treatments, and seeking necessary support, individuals can improve their chances of a successful recovery. Remember, seeking proper treatment after a motor vehicle accident is not only vital for physical healing but also for reclaiming a sense of normalcy and moving forward with renewed strength.
MODERNI SPINE 651-440-0939 Team@modernispine.com www.Modernispine.com/booking
MINNESOTA IS A NO-FAULT STATE. WE DO ACCEPT MVA INSURANCE FOR CLAIMS
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