It is quite common for individuals involved in car accidents to experience injuries to the neck, such as whiplash, or injuries to the back, possibly slipping a disc. The impact from the car collision may leave the motorists with injuries that will only worsen if untreated. Thankfully, there are many treatment options available for reducing back and neck pain. Physical Therapy care is a common, and often times, highly effective option. If you have back or neck pain as a result of a car accident and are looking for a remedy, consider seeking the expertise of a Physical Therapist such as the such as the physical therapy Gaithersburg, MD offers to locals. The following steps are common when initially deciding to explore Physical Therapy.
1. Telephone call. Usually, prospective patients will contact a Physical Therapist over the phone before stepping foot into a practice. Patients may do this in order to get a feel for the expertise or philosophy of the specific Physical Therapist. Physical Therapists are not uncommon so it is reasonable for a prospective patient to shop around before committing to a visit.
2. Symptoms and medical history. After the individual chooses a particular practice, the first visit will most likely include a questionnaire about symptoms and the patient’s medical history. Questions that could be asked:
- How did the injury or pain occur?
- Describe the sensation of the pain (achy, sore, sharp, etc..).
- Where are you experiencing the pain?
- Are there activities that increase or decrease the pain? What are they?
3. Physical Therapy examination. During the examination, the patient may receive typical medical tests to include: blood pressure, respiration, pulse, and reflex tests. In addition to the basic tests, the Physical Therapist may wish to examine range of motion, muscle strength, muscle tone, and neurological integrity. The patient may receive further examination of the affected area – assessing what motions may irritate or relieve the pain.
4. Diagnostic tests. After the Physical Therapist analyzes the results of the questionnaire and the initial examination, they may require additional diagnostic tests in order to more accurately diagnose the condition. They may require exams such as MRIs. X-rays, or other lab tests. The results of these tests may provide additional information as to any structural damage that occurred in the injured region.
5. Treatment plan. After the Physical Therapist has obtained the necessary information, they will determine whether or not Physical Therapy treatment will be suitable for the patient’s condition. If it is, the Physical Therapist will develop a plan that may best suit the specific injury needs of the patient.
If you have been injured in a car accident and require treatment for your injuries, consider visiting a Physical Therapist. If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, a personal injury lawyer may be able to develop a valid claim. Contact a personal injury attorney and explain the accident; if the case has merit, your Physical Therapy expenses may be covered by the negligent party.
Thanks to authors at Pain and Arthritis Center for their insight into Physical Therapy Care.
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