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After a car accident, victims often face a range of injuries, from whiplash and fractures to more severe conditions like spinal injuries. While immediate medical attention is crucial, recovery frequently extends beyond initial treatment.
Physical therapy plays a vital role in helping accident victims regain their mobility, manage pain, and prevent long-term damage. Patients may receive treatments like manual therapy or therapeutic exercises, which can help improve their quality of life.
For anyone who has been injured in a car accident, understanding the importance of physical therapy and how it contributes to recovery can make a difference in long-term outcomes.
Common Injuries From Car Accidents
Vehicle collisions can cause serious injuries, some of which might not show up right away. The following injuries often benefit from physical therapy after an accident:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a frequent injury from rear-end collisions caused by the sudden jerking motion of the neck. This often results in neck pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Physical therapy promotes mobility, reduces pain, and strengthens the muscles around the neck to restore range of motion.
- Fractures: Broken bones are common in high-impact car crashes. While immobilization is necessary during the initial healing phase, physical therapy helps the patient regain strength and mobility afterward.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement. Physical therapy helps these tissues heal correctly and prevent long-term stiffness.
- Spinal Injuries: Injuries to the spine, such as herniated discs or pinched nerves, can cause chronic pain or mobility issues. Physical therapy can alleviate pressure on the spine and help restore movement.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): In some cases, brain injuries can lead to balance or coordination issues. Physical therapists often work with accident victims to help them regain motor skills and physical functionality.
The Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery after a car accident. These treatments help restore strength and flexibility, allowing you to gradually regain movement without discomfort.
In addition to easing mobility issues, physical therapy helps relieve lingering pain after a car accident. Targeted treatments like electrical stimulation can reduce discomfort, making everyday tasks such as walking or sitting more manageable and helping you return to your normal routine. For example, one study found that electrical nerve therapy reduced pain by 43% in individuals with chronic back pain, improving their quality of life.
Physical therapy also helps prevent long-term issues from untreated injuries, such as stiffness or reduced mobility. Keeping your body active and promoting proper healing can accelerate recovery and lower the chances of future limitations.
Physical Therapy Techniques for Car Accident Injuries
Physical therapists use a wide range of specialized techniques to support recovery, each tailored to the individual’s unique injuries and goals for healing. Common methods include:
| Therapy | Explanation | Movements/Tools |
| Exercises | Helps strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion after an injury | Leg liftsShoulder stretchesHamstring stretches |
| Manual Therapy | Hands-on techniques like massage and joint manipulation to ease tension, improve blood flow, and reduce pain | Deep tissue massageJoint mobilizationTrigger point release |
| Ultrasound Therapy | Uses sound waves to heat tissues deep beneath the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of soft tissues | Ultrasound applicationSoft tissue mobilizationInflammation reduction |
| Electrical Stimulation | Sends mild electrical pulses to nerves and muscles to relieve pain and encourage muscle recovery | Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)Muscle re-educationNerve stimulation |
| Balance and Coordination Training | Focuses on exercises that improve balance and coordination, especially after brain or spinal injuries | Balance board trainingSingle-leg stanceCoordination drills |
Covering Physical Therapy Costs After a Car Accident
While the benefits of physical therapy are undeniable, the costs associated with treatment can add up. Fortunately, victims of car accidents in Central New York may be able to have these expenses covered as part of their compensation package.
At Catalano Law, our experienced Syracuse car accident lawyers seek compensation for your medical expenses, including physical therapy, so you aren’t left to cover these costs on your own. We build a strong case by working closely with medical experts and physical therapists to document your injuries in detail and win you what you deserve.
Contact the Syracuse Car Accident Lawyers at Catalano Law
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and require physical therapy for your recovery, having an experienced legal team is crucial. The Syracuse car accident lawyers at Catalano Law will help you secure the financial support necessary to cover your rehabilitation expenses.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us support your recovery.
