Car accidents are a part of modern life and can happen to anyone at any time. Many car accidents are minor, with the car sustaining more scratches and bumps than any of the passengers, but the risk of injury is real for anyone on the road.
The most common injuries sustained in car accidents are to the neck and back. Whiplash is the most common and occurs when the head is suddenly or violently thrown forward and then backward when a car is rear-ended. The neck is hyperextended and the delicate tendons and muscles can be damaged even at speeds as low as 15 mph. Symptoms of whiplash inflammation include neck pain, tenderness in the back of the neck, muscle spasms on the side or back of the neck, difficulty moving the head and neck, headache, and shooting pain from neck to arms. The neck can also twist, twist, or fracture, producing similar symptoms. Back pain is also a common injury, and symptoms such as pain and pain can indicate a more serious injury.
The legs, knees, hands, arms and head are also susceptible to injury as they may come into contact with hard surfaces during the collision. A concussion is also common in collisions where the head hits a hard object and victims should be closely monitored if this is the case. Concussions can get worse over time, and a doctor can tell you what signs to look for. Any part of the body can be hurt or cut.
It is always important to seek medical attention after a car accident if you experience pain or stiffness, even if it doesn’t appear right away. You may be in shock or have an adrenaline rush right after the accident and not realize you have an injury. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, can show if there are fractures, but more expensive tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, will be needed to show soft tissue damage. If the injury is relatively mild, rest may be the best cure. A doctor may prescribe medications such as muscle relaxants and pain relievers to allow damaged muscles to relax and get some rest. For more serious injuries, physical therapy may be necessary after a rest period to regain strength and mobility. Damaged muscles and tendons can take time to heal and it is important to follow your doctor’s advice to heal properly.
