Recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has shown that there are approximately 6 million car accidents happen in the U.S. Out of these 6 million accidents that happen, 2.5 million of them are from being rear-ended. What some people don’t know is that getting rear-ended is actually the most common type of car accident.
An injury is known as “whiplash”, which is when a person’s neck is extended to a range beyond its normal reach, frequently occurs when this type accident happens. Although they may not show up at the time of the accident, the symptoms of whiplash can become very overwhelming if left untreated.
Read on to learn how therapy can help you after a car accident.
Shorten Recovery Time
Some people don’t realize how bad injuries from accidents really are until they get back to their daily routine.
Some of the most common symptoms from injury include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Chronic headaches
- Reduction in range of motion
Just like with any kind of injury and ailment that does not resolve on its own, you need to seek medical attention. For car accident injuries, physical therapy can decrease both downtime and recovery time. In addition, attending therapy will also increase your strength, flexibility and mobility. Maintaining and regaining movement is the key to recovery.
It Prevents Long-Term Damage
Aside from alleviating the minor symptoms, physical therapy helps prevent any long-term damage like the chronic headaches, backaches and muscular pain. Depending on the extent of injury, starting therapy can lessen the duration of pain and help you resume activities of daily living.
Reduction in Pain
After an accident, most people think that remaining active is the last thing they should do. However, sitting idle can actually do more harm than good. Depending on the extent of your injuries, resuming physical activity can aid in recovery and help you return to normal sooner. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t go do some intense workout after an accident, as that could make the injuries worse and increase downtime. Take it slow and exercise in moderation.
With that said, if you’ve been in an accident, don’t wait to get help, seek it out immediately! For more information on physical therapy, call us at (303) 758-9000 today!