When should you see a physical therapist after a car accident?
Car accidents can be a painful and scary experience, but the physical therapy that follows them can help make the experience easier to handle. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as a result of being hit by a car, the first thing you will likely notice is that your back, neck, or other muscles are stiff and sore. It is important to immediately go to a doctor, get medical treatment, and get the necessary rest to minimize any pain or damage to the body.
A car accident can take many different forms, ranging from minor scratches and bruises to major injuries like concussions and spinal cord injuries. Most people who have been involved in a car accident will experience some degree of pain. In fact, almost everyone will feel some level of pain after a collision. But, not everyone will need to take medical treatment at a hospital. However it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor since injuries aren’t always apparent to the naked eye.
Therefore, the most important step you can take following a car accident is getting yourself checked out by a doctor. Although most people don’t think they will need to see a doctor right away, the sooner you visit the doctor, the better your chances of avoiding any long-term issues or complications. Even if you think you have only minor scrapes and bruises, you should see a doctor. Conditions like a broken bone, a herniated disc, or other serious medical conditions should not be overlooked. Your doctor might refer you to a physical therapist that can assist in your rehabilitation.
Will it go away on its own?
Some injuries may go away after a long time, if unassisted by a physical therapist, but manual physical therapy and physical therapy exercises will help shortcut the recovery process and help you feel better sooner than if left untreated.
A Physical therapist will use his or her expertise and experience to evaluate your injured body and find the appropriate therapy that will help you regain strength and function. Depending on the severity of your injury, therapy may include weight-bearing exercises and stretching, as well as special exercises designed to target specific muscles or joints. You might also be prescribed medication such as an anti-inflammatory or muscle relaxer to help speed up healing and prevent further injury.
During your physical therapy appointments, be sure to let your physical therapist know any special needs you have. For example, if you have been injured in the neck, back, or leg, you will need a brace or other support to prevent further injury. You will also need assistance walking after a period of time. Your therapist will be able to recommend a suitable exercise regimen for you to follow.
A physical therapist can only do so much to help an injured or diseased body part heal itself. If you expect your doctor to give you a list of activities you should not do because they may aggravate your injury, talk to your therapist about this. If you follow the doctor’s advice, you will notice a gradual increase in your ability to perform activities without any further aggravating your injury.
When you are ready to resume your daily activities, make sure to consult your physician first. He or she can recommend a suitable (HEP) home exercise program physical therapy program for you to follow. Make sure that you ask any questions you have while you are in the office. Questions can only help you get the best results from your physical therapy program.