Learn More About Car Accident Physical Therapy
A motor vehicle accident (MVA) is a traumatic event, both mentally and physically. Most individuals involved in an MVA recover within 2-3 weeks; however, it is not uncommon for many people to have lingering or recurring pain after the event. Though whiplash is the most common injury after an MVA, many other symptoms can occur after an accident.
Common Diagnoses after a Motor Vehicle Accident Injury
- Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD)
- Post-Concussion Disorders (PCD)
- Disc and Joint Injury
- Sprains and Strains
- Fractures
Symptoms After a Motor Vehicle Accident:
- Headache
- Neck/Shoulder Pain
- Back Pain
- Numbness/Bruising
- Emotional Distress
- Loss of range of motion
- Dizziness and balance difficulties
- Loss of strength and function
How We Treat Symptoms after Motor Vehicle Accident
A physical therapist will complete a comprehensive evaluation aimed at determining the underlying cause of your pain and will create a customized program to address your needs. Treatment may include:
- Modalities to relieve pain (electrical stimulation, heat, ice, ultrasound)
- Pain education and pain-relief strategies
- Manual therapy
- McKenzie method diagnosis and treatment
- Traction
- Dry needling
- Mobility exercises
- Endurance exercises
- Flexibility exercises
- Strengthening exercises
*Services are not available at all locations. Call or click the location page near you for that center’s services.
What to Expect
Every patient has a unique health history, diagnosis and personal goals. When you come for your first appointment, we will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
We work with most major insurance providers and do our best to help keep the paperwork pain-free. If you’d like to confirm your insurance coverage, please let us know and we can verify when you schedule. If your insurance provider requires a co-pay, we will ask for this payment at each visit. We accept payments by cash, check or credit card.
When to Arrive
On average, a patient’s first visit lasts about an hour. We typically ask patients to arrive 15 minutes early to sign-in, complete paperwork and/or change clothes.
What to Bring
On your first visit, you’ll need to bring your physician referral or prescription (if needed), your insurance card, your primary registration forms, your ID or driver’s license and your co-payment (as applicable). If desired, you may bring a change of clothing.
How it Works
During your first visit, your physical therapist will do an initial evaluation and discuss your plan of care. The therapist uses this information to set goals for your continued treatment. Physical therapy goals may include improved movement, strength, endurance and flexibility, as well as decreased pain. Your subsequent visits will focus on treatment that is based on your diagnosis and individualized goals.