The forces exerted on the human body during a car collision are immense and sudden, often resulting in musculoskeletal trauma. Even at low speeds, an abrupt stop can cause the body to jerk violently, straining muscles, ligaments, and tendons beyond their normal range of motion. This physical trauma frequently leads to inflammation, misalignment of the spine, and damage to soft tissues that support the skeletal structure. Here’s information on the medical consultation process following an auto accident:
Discuss Your Symptoms
The first step in any post-accident health consultation involves a thorough discussion of your current physical state. Your healthcare provider needs a complete picture of how the auto accident occurred and what you are experiencing in its aftermath. You will be asked to describe pain levels, the location of discomfort, and any limitations in movement you are experiencing. It is imperative to report even minor aches, as these sometimes indicate underlying issues that may worsen over time. This discussion provides the foundation for the physical examination that follows.
What Injuries Can Car Accidents Cause?
Auto accidents result in a wide variety of injuries depending on the severity of the crash and the occupants’ positions. Common musculoskeletal injuries include whiplash, which affects the neck and upper back, as well as herniated discs in the spine. Other injuries may involve rotator cuff tears, knee trauma from striking the dashboard, and fractures in the extremities. Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, are prevalent and can cause pain even if bones remain intact. Concussions and other head injuries are also a primary concern, often requiring specialized neurological evaluation alongside orthopedic care.
When Can Symptoms Occur?
It is not uncommon for individuals to feel relatively fine immediately after a collision due to the body’s release of adrenaline and endorphins. This biological response can temporarily mask pain signals, leading some to believe they are uninjured. Symptoms may not appear until after the incident occurs, and a lack of immediate pain does not mean there isn’t an injury. Delayed onset muscle soreness, headaches, and stiffness often manifest once the initial shock wears off and inflammation sets in.
Run Electrodiagnostic Tests
To pinpoint the source of pain or weakness, particularly when nerve damage is suspected, your provider may recommend electrodiagnostic testing. These diagnostic tools evaluate the electrical activity of muscles and the nerves controlling them. One common procedure is the electromyography (EMG) study test. An EMG measures muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle.
During this noninvasive test, one or more electrode patches are placed on the skin above the nerve. This test helps providers distinguish between muscle conditions and nerve disorders, allowing them to determine if weakness is due to the muscle itself or a problem with the nerves supplying it. This level of precision is key for accurately diagnosing health conditions.
Set Up Treatment and Pain Management Plan
Once a diagnosis is made, the focus shifts to creating a structured recovery strategy. A comprehensive treatment plan addresses symptom relief and the rehabilitation of the injured areas. Comprehensive plans may include a combination of physical therapy to restore range of motion, musculoskeletal adjustments to realign the spine, and targeted exercises to strengthen supporting muscles. Pain management is also a key component, which may involve non-invasive therapies like:
- Electrical Stimulation
- Ultrasound
- Medication Management
The goal is to reduce inflammation and pain while promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
Schedule an Auto Accident Health Consultation
Seeking a professional evaluation after a collision is a valuable step for maintaining your long-term health. Early detection and intervention may help prevent minor injuries from worsening into chronic conditions. If you have been involved in an auto accident, schedule a consultation with a pain management specialist today.
