Why Should You See a Physiotherapist After a Motor Vehicle Accident?
Motor vehicle accidents take a toll on your mind and body. Depending on the severity of the collision, they can cause mild to serious injuries. For some, these injuries become chronic as their symptoms linger. Some common chronic physical and mental issues associated with car accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD)
From this list, whiplash is perhaps the most common chronic condition caused by car accidents. However, no matter the injury, you must seek immediate medical care and have a physical evaluation after a collision. Unfortunately, the discomfort from whiplash and other injuries can persist even if you have received prompt care. In such cases, you will also need long-term physiotherapy to make a full recovery. Here are some ways this therapy can help.
Prevents Additional Damage
Physiotherapy can be used to treat new injuries and chronic conditions to aid recovery, reverse damage, and prevent future damage. For those with whiplash or similar injuries, it can prevent chronic pain as well as improve flexibility, mobility, and strength in the back and neck. However, you must start therapy as soon after the accident as possible, and attend therapeutic sessions regularly. If you don’t, you could develop additional issues, suffer from chronic pain, and even become more susceptible to certain diseases, such as degenerative disc disease.
Speeds Up the Recovery Process
Serious injuries can take weeks or even months to heal. Plenty of rest and therapy can shorten this recovery time. After a collision, motor vehicle accident (MVA) physiotherapy can help your injured body part(s) regain strength and mobility. Moreover, the stronger you become, the easier it is to recover. Regular physiotherapy also increases your chances of regaining full range of motion and reduces pain and stiffness.
Restores Normal Physical Activity
Physiotherapy is paramount in regaining range of motion, mobility, and functionality in injured and affected body parts. It’s vital for those who are newly injured but can also restore functionality for those with old, untreated injuries from a motor vehicle accident. Cardiovascular therapy techniques and strength building exercises improve endurance and stamina, preparing patients for normal daily activity and more. Doing this type of therapy regularly will also help you return to normal activity faster. Moreover, it could help restore your ability to exercise at all intensity levels (from low to high intensity).