What You Should Do After Getting into a Car Accident to Make Sure Your Body Is Okay

Car accidents can have various effects. Property damage is one of them, and this may result in costly repairs and challenges getting places. Injuries is another possible outcome. Bodily damage is common, even in minor fender benders. Seeking treatment right away is important for many reasons. No matter how severe the injuries are, it is a good idea to search for physical therapy in South Jersey. 

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

In serious accidents, it may be obvious to call an ambulance to deal with severe or life-threatening injuries. However, even minor injuries require medical attention.

If you are in a crash, you may not notice symptoms right away, especially if is a minor accident. However, it is common for some symptoms to appear later, such as hours or days later. Symptoms that are commonly delayed include shoulder pain, headaches, back pain, neck pain, tingling and numbness in the extremities, pain in the abdomen, and behavioral changes.

These symptoms indicate that there are injuries to the nerves, muscles, and other soft tissues in the body. If you experience any of them after a crash, you should make your way to the doctor’s office or urgent care. As a result of an exam, the healthcare professional may recommend physical therapy in Galloway, NJ as part of your treatment plan.

Here is What Physical Therapy Can Do for You

There are various aspects of physical therapy in Philadelphia. After asking about the accident and your associate symptoms, the physical therapist will conduct a thorough physical exam and recommend a treatment plan. This plan will consist of different treatment methods depending on your needs and goals. 

Reduce Pain and Other Symptoms

The first priority of physical therapy is to get you out of pain as quickly as possible. The modalities used may include cold and hot therapies, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, manual therapy, and muscle therapy. Sessions at this initial stage may be more frequent to tackle the symptoms efficiently.

Improve Movement and Function

Once your symptoms have decreased, the physical therapist may begin to incorporate methods to improve your body’s function. Initially, this may include gentle stretching, balance exercises, and movements to improve coordination.

Next, the physical therapist will focus on strengthening the injured area. This may include weightlifting or using bands to improve muscle tone. At this stage, you may receive exercises that you can do at home to assist the treatment you receive at the clinic. The more engaged you are with these, the faster your recovery will be.

Prevent Chronic Issues

Another focus of treatment may be prevention. Injured areas are weak and more susceptible to future injuries. By strengthening the area, there is less of a chance of reinjury. Because the physical therapist also focuses on healing the injury, this prevents chronic issues such as chronic back or neck pain.

Physical therapy can be quite effective after a car accident. However, if you want the best results, it is important to attend all sessions of the treatment plan and partake in at-home exercises.