subject: How To Identify And Treat Motor Vehicle Injuries [print this page] There is some degree of irony that the very things designed to keep us safe from life threatening injuries in a motor vehicle accident are the source of so many musculoskeletal injuries. Things like airbags and seat belts unquestionably save lives, but in the process of doing so create problems like whiplash.
There is no excuse not to wear a seat belt. The studies are all conclusive. A seat belt saves lives, but after the accident, it is critical to treat injuries promptly and effectively.
Whiplash
Perhaps the most common injury you hear about after a motor vehicle accident is whiplash. The sudden movement of the head, forward and back, side to side or some combination thereof causes whiplash.
Pain comes on anywhere from two hours after the accident to days later. Today's imaging technology can show where in the soft tissue the damage has occurred, those suffering from whiplash in the past were often accused of faking the injury.
Whiplash is best treated in a multi-pronged approach. A combination of manual manipulation, exercises, muscle relaxation or stimulation, pain management and lifestyle changes are all employed in whiplash treatment. With patients reporting pain and headaches as long as 2 years after the original injury, it is easy to see what a persistent problem whiplash can be.
Fortunately with good treatment, whiplash can be resolved almost every time. There are some studies that indicate a strong correlation between untreated whiplash and subsequent fibromyalgia, so don't shirk your appointments during treatment.
Other Problems Resulting from MVA
Unfortunately whiplash isn't the only problem that can result from a motor vehicle accident. Pain and numbness in the arms, shoulders, mid-back and low back all come as a result of your being shaken about. For those with underlying disk problems, a motor vehicle accident can cause complete herniations and an increase in pain and numbness.
Each of these difficulties needs to be assessed properly for the best treatment options to be presented. For most injuries a combination of exercise, anti-inflammatory medication and some form of manual therapy, such as chiropractics or massage, are sufficient. For more serious situations physical therapy, spinal injections and even surgery may be considered.
Treatment of Motor Vehicle Injuries
If you do choose to pursue treatment with alternative care providers, you will need to acquire x-rays, preferably a set from before the accident and one from afterwards.
Any soft tissue scan reports should be included in the information you provide your practitioner. Expect to go through some of the same tests and manipulations you experienced with your general practitioner before a conclusion is reached and a care plan is constructed.
You can anticipate some manual manipulation, cold or heat therapy, massage and pain management to be part of your experience. If any treatment makes your symptoms worse, let the practitioner know immediately. Soft tissue injuries can take months to heal properly depending on their severity and location.
Stick with your care plan even if you don't see immediate results. Patience is well rewarded in this situation.
