Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
What kinds of crash-related injuries do physical therapists treat?
It’s something that anyone who’s ever been in a motor vehicle accident knows all too well: That life-saving trip to the emergency room is often only the first step in the long road to recovery. Injuries from car accidents can impact your life for months or years after the initial incidents.
Among the injuries for which patients often seek physical therapy are whiplash, knee damage, torn rotator cuffs, crushed hands, cracked ribs and damaged lungs — as well as traumatic brain injury, nervous system disorders, stress disorder and nonspecific pain.
Is there more than one kind of physical therapy available after a crash?
Physical therapy isn’t just for whiplash or broken bones. There are several categories of crash injuries for which the treatment can be helpful. One example is cardiovascular therapy which can be used to improve breathing function after having bruised and cracked ribs.
Physical therapists can also provide neurological therapy for traumatic brain injuries from auto accidents. Brain trauma can affect balance, strength and the sense of touch, among other serious problems. Physical therapy in Redmond, WA is often key to improving these conditions after the accident.
Of course, orthopedic damage to the neck, back, knees and shoulders is also helped by “classic” physical therapy. PT for these injuries typically includes specialized exercises and gentle, targeted massage.
Why is it important to start physical therapy as soon as possible?
Depending on your injury, scar tissue can build up along injured muscles, tendons, and joints — making the recovery process much longer if you don’t work on it as soon as possible. PT also helps you avoid “teaching” your body bad habits to make up for your injuries. A common example of this is throwing your spine out of alignment because you’re favoring an aching hip.
Finally, any insurance or legal claims you may be seeking will need documentation in order to prove the duration needed for physical therapy treatment.
Our team of physical therapists can help you with all of these issues. Our team will work with you to determine the scope of physical therapy you need and provide any needed documentation. Contact us at Bridle Trails in Redmond, WA for an appointment so you can begin recovery from your motor vehicle accident injury as soon as possible.
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