Back Clinic Auto Accident Injuries Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Team. Many automobile accidents occur throughout the world every year, affecting a wide number of individuals, both physically and mentally. From neck and back pain to bone fractures and whiplash, auto accident injuries and their associated symptoms can challenge the daily lives of those who experienced unexpected circumstances.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s collection of articles discusses auto injuries caused by trauma, including which specific symptoms affect the body and the particular treatment options available for each injury or condition resulting from an auto accident. Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can not only lead to injuries but they can be full of confusion and frustrations.
It is very important to have a qualified provider specializing in these matters completely assess the circumstances surrounding any injury. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
Approximately 17,000 alcohol related automobile accidents occur in the United States alone each year, meaning there�s an accident about every 31 minutes. Alcohol has been a factor in 39 percent of all severe auto collisions and in 7 percent of all crashes, according to a 2004 research study. In addition, about 248,000 people suffer injuries or conditions during an incident where police reported alcohol was involved, meaning one person is injured in a car wreck in the US about every 2 minutes. These statistics reveal why drunk driving related automobile accidents have become a major issue, affecting people�s health and wellness every year.
Drunk Driving Car Accident Chiropractor in El Paso, Texas
Alcohol related car accidents aren�t the only culprit of injuries, driving under the influence of other types of drugs can also be a great risk for drivers in El Paso, Texas. DUI stands for driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Often times, prescription drugs and medications can have side-effects or specific instructions where it�s not recommended for the individual to drive or lift heavy machinery after taking them. Any type of substance which impairs a person�s normal driving ability can be a cause for an auto collision resulting in damage, injury or the development of painful conditions. If an individual has been involved in an unfortunate automobile accident caused by a careless driver who was �under the influence� behind the wheel and they were harmed as a result of the incident, it�s fundamental for the involved parties to seek immediate medical attention. Unfortunately in many instances, the innocent party is the one who ends up with more severe injuries and conditions than the party at fault. This is largely in part to the relaxed state in which the inebriated driver is in at the very moment of the auto accident as opposed to the tensing up reflex caused before a known impending impact. Regardless of how severe the incident was or whether the individual has experienced symptoms following the car wreck, seeking medical attention as soon as possible can help prevent further complications. Early diagnosis can also help provide faster relief from your injuries caused after the sheer impact of the automobile collision.
Chiropractic care is one of the most common, alternative treatment options preferred by people who�ve been involved in an automobile accident. Chiropractic focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. Not everyone experiences symptoms immediately after the incident, in fact, a majority of injuries or conditions which develop due to the collision do not manifest in the form of open wounds or fractures. Whiplash associated injuries, for example, occur when the head or neck suddenly jerks back-and-forth in any direction due to a sheer impact. When this happens, the cervical spine and its surrounding structures are stretched beyond their limit, damaging or tearing the tissues.
Other injuries like whiplash may require further evaluations and tests to determine their presence. During the first visit, a chiropractor will perform a series of assessments to conclude a diagnosis before following up with treatment. The healthcare professional will prepare an appropriate treatment plan depending on the individual�s type and severity of their injury or condition. Although chiropractic adjustments and spinal manipulations are the most common treatment methods and techniques to help a victim of an automobile accident recover, the spine specialist can also recommend a series of exercises and habit changes to promote a faster recovery.
Things to do at the Scene of the Accident before Medical Treatment
First and foremost, contact 911 to have an ambulance arrive at the scene for all the involved parties. Make sure they are informed of how many are injured and, to the extent you can, the severity of each person;
Make sure they send a police officer as well. If the party at fault appears to be under the influence, make sure the proper authorities are informed;
Try not to engage in contact with the driver to avoid further issues;
If the offending driver, attempts to leave the scene, �do not follow� them. Simply, attempt to get the make, model, color and tag number of their vehicle;
In case you are going to require the services of a legal representative, taking pictures of the damage of both cars can help during a personal injury case. Note: Not all automobile accidents make require the services of an attorney to gain compensation for an injury. Furthermore, make sure the officer gives you the Incident Number, so you can follow up with your case;
After being involved in an automobile accident, especially if you don�t know how hurt you are, it�s important to seek immediate medical attention. Before seeing a primary healthcare provider or following treatment with a chiropractor or physical therapist, you can go to the ER for an initial diagnosis and treatment. A short list of Emergency Rooms in El Paso, Texas has been provided at the bottom of this article;
Driving While Intoxicated, DWI, Car Accident Damages
Subsequently following an auto accident, many insurance companies try to rush the compensation process. The reason insurance company car accident adjusters try to quickly settle your DWI injury quickly is because they know Texas law allows for the recovery of punitive damages in a car accident where their insured was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. With proper guidance and patience, individuals can gain a proper settlement for their case to help them pay for their medical bills and property damages. Many El Paso Chiropractor offices can help individuals with their compensations from the insurance company, working alongside various attorneys or simply through years of knowledge and skill in the process.
24 Hour El Paso Emergency Room Treatment Locations for Car Accident Victims
Sierra Medical Center
1625 Medical Center Drive
El Paso, TX 79902
(915) 747-4000
www.sphn.com
Las Palmas Medical Center
1801 North Oregon Street
El Paso, TX 79902
(915) 521-1776
www.laspalmasdelsolhealthcare.com
If You Were the One Under the Influence
If you believe you may have a drinking problem, the first step is to acknowledge it and seek help. The Alcoholic Anonymous program has, over the years, proven itself to be the best opportunity to change the habit of drinking alcohol. For a list of Alcoholics Anonymous groups in El Paso, Texas see the list below.
List of El Paso, El Paso County, Texas AA Meeting Locations
Alcoholics Anonymous
3318 Douglas Avenue
El Paso, TX 79903
(915) 562-4081
New Beginnings
6044 Gateway Boulevard East
El Paso, TX
(915) 771-0990
Alternative Center for Behavioral Hlth
5001 Alabama Street
El Paso, TX
(915) 565-4800
Non Legal Provider Insights
Being involved in an automobile accident can cause moderate to severe injuries and conditions as well as property damages, however, those caused by a driver under the influence can lead to further complications. As people work hard to gain the compensation they deserve following the incident, seeking medical attention is essential to find relief from the injuries caused by the car wreck. A drunk driving auto accident chiropractor specializes on injuries caused during auto collisions, helping to treat and care for victims of a DUI auto accident.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Headache After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. Whiplash is a common result of an auto collision, affecting the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues around it, causing symptoms such as head pain. Headaches are a common symptom after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
Car accidents are, by far, the leading cause of transportation related injuries throughout the United States and locally in the El Paso area. Most Americans are completely dependent on using cars to perform each of our daily tasks, including driving to the store, work, school, shopping, doctors, and a variety of other commonplace tasks. The inevitable consequence is that, no matter how safe a driver you are, you will likely be involved in some sort of auto accident one day. This reality becomes even more likely in a city such as El Paso, Texas, which is an important West Texas center and due to the Air Force Base within the El Paso area.
When Should You Hire an El Paso Car Accident Attorney?
Of course, not every car accident requires that you hire a car accident lawyer. Car accident lawyers only become necessary when an accident results in an injury serious enough to warrant medical attention, or one that detracts from your quality of life and daily routine. In these cases, retaining an El Paso, Texas automobile accident lawyer can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you and your family receive the advice and compensation you deserve.
You should contact an experienced El Paso auto accident attorney when your injuries are such that:
You have a severe injury that will cause you some significant lost time or wages from work; or
Where a car accident causes you to be disfigured; or
You are caused to suffer permanent pain; or
You have suffered a �loss of consortium� as a result of an automobile injury to your spouse. Please note that loss of consortium claims encompass all negative effects on the martial relationship, including loss of love, affection, support, companionship and sexual relations.
If you or a loved one has suffered a car accident or other type of injury from an El Paso auto, truck, van, or bus and any of the above factors are present, then you should retain an El Paso car accident attorney immediately.
Why Do You Need an El Paso Auto Accident Lawyer?
Every state, including Texas, requires car owners to purchase automobile accident insurance. However, car insurance companies are notorious for trying to get out of paying fair and just compensation to their customers, even when those customers have routinely made their insurance payments for years. Let�s face it, how do car insurance companies make money? Simply put: They love to take premiums and hate to pay claims.
El Paso car accident attorneys handle car accident cases, motorcycle accidents, and commercial truck accidents throughout the El Paso area and in all areas of El Paso County. Additionally, they represent drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists who have suffered an injury in an El Paso, Texas traffic accident where another driver may have been at fault. The defense lawyer will try to place fault on the injured party to reduce their award. This �fault� is called comparative fault and this is a very important reason why you need an experienced El Paso accident attorney.
El Paso Uninsured Car Wreck Lawyer
Even though it is required in Texas, that if you drive in El Paso you have insurance, people do not always have insurance. When they hit your car and injure you, that is called and uninsured motorist’s claim. If this is happens, your uninsured auto accident lawyer in El Paso will try to successfully handle your El Paso car wreck against your car insurance company. Depending on how your insurance company treats you, it may also give rise to an El Paso bad faith insurance claim.
El Paso Car Accidents Involving Driver Charged with Driving While Intoxicated
Because of the unique set of laws in Texas having to do with drunk driving accidents, please visit our Driving While Intoxicated Car Accident page for a more complete understanding.
El Paso Wrongful Death Car Accident Lawyer
Fatal accidents due happen in El Paso, Texas. When they do, your family has a claim under the Texas Wrongful Death Statute. If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one and you believe that the other party was at fault, contact an experienced El Paso fatal car accident Lawyer right away.
Other reasons to retain an El Paso, TX Auto Accident lawyer or El Paso County, TX Auto Accident lawyer include:
In Texas, the statutory minimum of liability insurance is $25,000.00;
A trained El Paso, Texas car accident attorney will get you quality medical care;
An El Paso County car accident lawyer will preserve vital evidence and immediately retain experts, called accident reconstructionists, who recreate the accident for the purposes of trial and legal settlements;
If alcohol and/or drugs played a role in the cause of the accident punitive damages may be available;
A licensed El Paso car accident attorney will make sure that:
Your automobile�s property damage is fully paid;
Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is recovered; and
That all layers of insurance coverage, such as excess levels of coverage are placed on notice;
A persona injury attorney in El Paso will not let your statute of limitations is two (2) years from the date of the accident;
An El Paso injury trial lawyer will be completely familiar with:
The Texas Rules of Civil Procedure;
The laws governing where your lawsuit should be filed. These are called “Venue” laws.
If your El Paso car crash lawyer determines that your car injury lawsuit should be filed in one of the below El Paso County Civil Courts or El Paso County District Court, they will also have a thorough knowledge of the Texas Rules of Evidence.
If your El Paso injury litigator, chooses federal court, he or she will be completely familiar with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Evidence.
For all these reasons, you should not hesitate to retain an experienced El Paso tractor trailer accident lawyer near you to help you pursue claims related to an accident in El Paso involving a commercial vehicle.
After being involved in an automobile accident, the legal and medical complications that follow can be frustrating. Dealing with the insurance companies to gain compensation for your property damages and injuries due to the incident can be a tedious task if you do not have the proper legal representation. A car accident injury attorney will fight to achieve the compensation you deserve. �When you are questioning weather to get and attorney, do contact the above legal providers. �They will clearly help you decide if your case warrants legal review.
The before mentioned article presentation was a legal snippet and not to be misunderstood as clinical advice from a Clinical provider or Chiropractor.
Clinical Provider Topics: Headache After Auto Injury
On the other side of the pictures is the clinical presentation after an accident. The facts show that after being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. Whiplash is a common result of an auto collision, affecting the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues around it, causing symptoms such as head pain. Headaches are a common symptom after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
Chiropractic care is a well-known alternative treatment option which focuses primarily on the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. When an individual is involved in an accident or a previous condition has become aggravated over time, causing injury, chiropractic treatment can help.
Injury from an accident or condition can often cause complications to the structures of the body, most commonly the spine, resulting in spinal misalignments, or subluxations, that can lead to the impingement or compression of the nerves, followed by the altered function of the nervous system and the organs surrounding the affected area. After a careful diagnosis, a chiropractor will utilize various natural treatment techniques, such as spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, to correct any possible misalignments and restore the original function of these structures. While chiropractic care has been utilized to treat back pain and neck pain caused by injuries or underlying conditions, there are other non-musculoskeletal disorders which may benefit from this form of alternative treatment.
Treatment Study for Cervicogenic Hearing Loss
Cervicogenic hearing loss is a disorder which, as the name suggests, causes complications closely regarding the function of the vertebral artery relating to its supply of blood to the auditory system. There�s also been suggestions indicating that the reduction of blood supply to the audio/vestibular mechanism may occur as a result of the placement of the spine and its reduction of blood supply to audition. Several research studies have been conducted, however, demonstrating the clinical effect and safety of chiropractic care in treating cervicogenic sudden hearing loss disorders.
From January 2011 to October 2013, 90 individuals diagnosed with cervicogenic sudden hearing loss were divided at random into two groups: the treatment group and the control group; according to a random number table produced by SPSS 19.0 software. In the treatment group, there were 17 males and 28 females, ranging from ages 31 to 62 years old; the course of disease was from 1 to 3 days; and pure-tone audiometry scores ranged from 46.5 to 77.8 dB. Scores for the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) for the treatment group were from 17 to 31. In the control group, there were 15 males and 30 females, ranging from ages 28 to 64 years old; the course of disease was from 1 to 3 days; and pure-tone audiometry scores ranged from 48.1 to 75.0 dB. Scores for the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire for the control group were from 20 to 29 scores.
The patients of the control group were treated with 10 mg of a dexamethasone intravenous drip, 3 days later, which was then decreased to 5 mg, 3 days later again. With a methycobal intravenous drip of 500 ?g, treatment continued for 10 days. The patients of the treatment group were treated with chiropractic additionally, except for the therapeutic methods of the control group. The chiropractic treatment used on the individuals included local muscle loosening, attacking point, bilateral pulling of the atlantoaxial joint and continuous treatment for 10 days. The pure-tone audiometry scores and NPQ scores were compared between the two groups after completing treatment.
After the treatment, pure-tone audiometry scores and NPQ scores of the treatment group had improved respectively, which displayed significantly better results than those of the control group. In conclusion, compared with routine methods for treating individuals with cervicogenic sudden hearing loss, additional chiropractic care was determined to help improve hearing and relieve neck pain effectively.
The Side Effects of Vaccines Revealed
As a healthcare provider, Dr. Patrick Gentempo has been searching for the truth behind the effects of vaccines on the general population. When making critical decisions about you and your children�s health, it�s essential to have the correct knowledge of all medical procedures you�re being involved in, including the administration of mandatory vaccines, among others.
Identified as a disorder causing significant loss of hearing due to a spinal misalignment that causes a decrease in blood supply from the vertebral artery to the auditory system. A compression or impingement of the structures surrounding the spine can lead to various complications, however, chiropractic has demonstrated substantial benefits towards treating cervicogenic hearing loss.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Spinal Evaluation: Every year, approximately 400 million drivers and their passengers are at a potential risk of being involved in an unfortunate automobile accident. An estimated 10 percent of these individuals will experience injuries and property damages from a car wreck every 10 years.
Fortunately, a large majority of these auto accidents only result in minimal property damages and minor injuries. However, a considerable amount of individuals who�ve suffered an affliction to their personal health and wellness may require medical involvement to determine if they�ve experienced underlying injuries or developed any possible conditions as a result of the auto collision. In fact, anyone who has been in a moderate or high velocity automobile accident should be evaluated by a spine specialist, such as a chiropractor or even an orthopedic surgeon.
Spinal Injuries from Auto Collisions
Almost half of all spinal injuries occur due to an auto accident. High speed automobile collisions can have devastating consequences on the overall health of the spine and its surrounding structures. If the spinal cord becomes damaged, it can cause irreparable damage, even paralysis. Spinal vertebrae displacement or fractures can cause impingement or compression against the spinal cord, which may lead to focal weakness or numbness. Spinal cord contusions from a vertebral bone dislocation or fragment may cause injury to the delicate blood vessels surrounding the spine, often resulting in permanent disability.
Direct trauma to the spine caused after an individual is involved in an auto accident can result in long-term disability or paralysis if not managed effectively. If you have been in a major car accident, receiving a spinal evaluation is urgently important. While most common symptoms, including neck and back pain, can take up to 24 hours, even days and weeks to manifest, if no noticeable symptoms develop, it�s still important to seek an immediate evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in spine care.
How Minor Accidents Can Cause Spinal Injury
Symptoms from trauma during a car wreck may not show up for hours, even days after the accident. For instance, a concussion can develop symptoms as many as 24 to 48 hours after the initial incident. Whiplash functions in the same manner. Even if you do not feel symptoms immediately after a car accident, symptoms of whiplash may eventually develop several hours to various days after the motor vehicle accident, commonly characterized by neck pain and headaches.
Whiplash is caused by a sudden, back-and-forth jerk of the head, in any direction, often caused by rear end or front end collisions. Unfortunately, half of all people who experience whiplash may have neck pain symptoms for at least one year after the accident, if not treated immediately or accordingly by a healthcare professional.
If you have symptoms such as neck pain, muscle tightness, muscle spasms, headaches focused in the back area of the head, or any difficulty moving your neck or turning your head, you may have suffered whiplash syndrome. It is fundamental to have an evaluation by a spine specialist, often referred to as a car accident doctor, a physician who is experienced in evaluating car accident injuries. Be sure to seek care from a locally experienced and qualified spine specialist, such as Dr. Dean Smith, orthopedic surgeon, to achieve the best possible care for your automobile injuries.
Dr. Dean Smith is a highly regarded, local, orthopedic surgeon who performs minimally invasive spinal surgeries for those whose option for recovery lies in this procedure. Minimally invasive spinal surgeries use a very small incision which reduces damage to surrounding tissues and muscles as compared to traditional surgical techniques. Additionally, this type of procedure can reduce pain and recovery time after the surgery. It’s important to seek the proper care for your specific needs.
Minimally Invasive Spine Seminar
Spine Surgeons for Car Accident Injury
Spine surgery is not always needed after an accident, chiropractic care and physical therapy can effectively help restore an individual�s spinal health after experiencing injury or aggravating a previous condition, however, until you are evaluated by a spine specialist, one can often not be certain. Correspondingly, not every healthcare professional has the necessary experience and qualifications to properly diagnose and treat the injuries or conditions associated with motor vehicle accidents, such as whiplash or more serious spine damages.
When seeking the most appropriate spine care after suffering an automobile accident, it�s essential to find a provider who�s had years of practice evaluating and treating those who�ve been harmed in a traffic collision. While only a small number of these patients may eventually need the services of a spinal surgeon, seeking the knowledge of the right orthopedic surgeon who can provide a comprehensive spinal evaluation to formulate an appropriate treatment plan can help provide the individual with the proper peace of mind they deserve.
Early Intervention After an Auto Injury
Being involved in an automobile accident can result in property damages and injuries, such as whiplash, which can challenge an individual’s lifestyle. Although symptoms may not immediately develop, it’s fundamental for people to receive a spinal evaluation after a traffic collision to determine the presence of any possible health complications and follow through with the proper treatment.
For more information, please feel free to contact us at�915-850-0900�.�
Automobile safety is the study and practice of vehicle design, construction, and equipment to minimize the occurrence and consequences of automobile accidents. (Road traffic safety more broadly includes roadway design. One of the first formal academic studies into improving car safety was by Cornell Aeronautical Labs of Buffalo, New York. The main conclusion of their extensive report is the crucial importance of seat belts and padded dashboards. The anatomy of a car accident is a cool video to share with all ages.
The More Things Change: The More They Remain the Same
Improvements in roadway and automobile designs have steadily reduced injury and death rates in all first world countries. Nevertheless, auto collisions are the leading cause of injury-related deaths, an estimated total of 1.2 million in 2004, or 25% of the total from all causes. Risk compensation limits the improvement that can be made, often leading to reduced safety where one might expect the opposite.
When pregnant, women should continue to use seatbelts and airbags properly. A University of Michigan study found that “unrestrained or improperly restrained pregnant women are 5.7 times more likely to have an adverse fetal outcome than properly restrained pregnant women”. If seatbelts are not long enough, extensions are available from the car manufacturer or an aftermarket supplier.
Children present significant challenges in engineering and producing safe vehicles, because most children are significantly smaller and lighter than most adults. Safety devices and systems designed and optimised to protect adults � particularly calibration-sensitive devices like airbags and active seat belts � can be ineffective or hazardous to children. In recognition of this, many medical professionals and jurisdictions recommend or require that children under a particular age, height, and/or weight ride in a child seat and/or in the back seat, as applicable. In Sweden, for instance, a child or an adult shorter than 140 cm is legally forbidden to ride in a place with an active airbag in front of it.
Child safety locks and driver-controlled power window lockout controls prevent children from opening doors and windows from inside the vehicle.
Infants left in cars
Very young children can perish from heat or cold if left unattended in a parked car, whether deliberately or through absentmindedness. In 2004 the U.S. NHTSA estimated 25 fatalities per year among children left in hot cars.
In the UK, a full driving licence can be had at age 17, and most areas in the United States will issue a full driver’s license at the age of 16, and all within a range between 14 and 18. In addition to being relatively inexperienced, teen drivers are also cognitively immature, compared to other drivers. This combination leads to a relatively high crash rate among this demographic.
In some areas, new drivers’ vehicles must bear a warning sign to alert other drivers that the vehicle is being driven by an inexperienced and learning driver, giving them opportunity to be more cautious and to encourage other drivers to give novices more leeway. In the US New Jersey has Kyleigh’s Law citing that teen drivers must have a decal on their vehicle. Commercial services also exist to that provide a notification phone number to report unsafe driving such as IsmyKidDrivingSafe.com and CarefulTeenDriver.com.
Some countries, such as Australia, the United States, Canada and New Zealand, have graduated levels of driver’s licence, with special rules. By 2010, all US states required a graduated driver’s licence for drivers under age 18. In Italy, the maximum speed and power of vehicles driven by new drivers is restricted. In Romania, the maximum speed of vehicles driven by new drivers (less than one year in experience) is 20 km/h lower than the national standard (except villages, towns and cities).
Insurance statistics in the United States indicate a 30% increase in the number of elderly killed, comparing 1975 to 2000. Several states require additional testing for elderly drivers. On a per-driver basis, the number of fatal and overall crashes decreases with age, with some exceptions for drivers over 75. The overall trend may be due to greater experience and avoiding driving in adverse conditions. However, on a per-miles-travelled basis, drivers younger than 25-30 and older than 65-70 have significantly higher accident rates. Survivability of crashes decreases monotonically with the age of the victim.
This vintage short flick holds theories that today can serve us all well. �Concentration, Control & Courtesy are so important here in our very own El Paso. �Today, as our town grows so fast we must be vigilant about driving and teaching our children the hazards of driving in such a growing city. �This was a fresh of breath air short flick. �Teach it to your kids… Regards Dr. Alex Jimenez
Whiplash is the common result of a traffic collision. While the symptoms for this type of injury usually ease on their own without the need of specific treatment, it is suggested to manage the natural mobility of the neck and seek medical attention immediately. In many instances, people will turn to the use of painkillers to ease the pain but these only disguise the problem temporarily as they don�t directly treat the issue.
Whiplash-associated injuries are the result of a sudden, back-and-forth motion of the head as a result of an extreme force acting against the body. Because of the force from the impact of a car crash, the muscles, ligaments and other complex tissues found within the neck can stretch, or sprain, beyond the normal range, occasionally causing tears.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Since the symptoms of whiplash often manifest immediately after the auto accident, for some individuals, these can take up to several days, weeks, even months to develop. The common symptoms for whiplash include: pain and discomfort along with stiffness in the neck, usually worsening with each day, pain and stiffness may also be felt in the shoulders, down the arms, and in the upper and/or lower area of the back; turning or bending the neck may be difficult and painful; headaches; dizziness, blurred vision, pain in the jaw or pain when swallowing and abnormal sensations along the skin of the face; and finally, some individuals may experience fatigue and can have irritability and difficulty concentrating.
The appearance of any of these symptoms could indicate the presence of a whiplash-associated injury. It�s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and determine the true cause of the symptoms. If any of the above mentioned symptoms persist, be sure to tell a doctor immediately.
Who Can Get Whiplash?
Neck sprains, or whiplash, are actually significantly common. Many individuals who experience an undesired and unexpected automobile accident develop symptoms of neck pain with or without other injuries. It�s been previously concluded that women tend to be more prone than men to suffer from whiplash-associated injuries as the structures of their body can be relatively different.
After being involved in a minor auto collision where the vehicle only experienced minimal damage, many people are often surprised to still have developed symptoms of whiplash. Including slow vehicle bumps may cause a sufficient enough jerking motion of the neck to cause symptoms.
Although more uncommon, a whiplash-associated injury can also occur as a result of a sports injury or from strenuous physical activity. Some people have also reported injury from an everyday activity where the neck is suddenly jerked after a trip or fall.
Diagnosing Whiplash
A healthcare specialist who focuses and emphasizes in auto accident injuries is most qualified to diagnosing the presence of whiplash from the description of the incident, the symptoms the individual may be experiencing and through a careful evaluation. Because whiplash is a soft-tissue injury, many doctors may be unable to make a clear diagnosis, however, some healthcare specialists are specifically trained to identify whiplash. A careful examination of the structures of the neck, back, shoulders and arms can help determine if there�s been damage or injury to the spine or to the spinal cord or spinal nerves. Further tests may be recommended.
Treatments for Neck Sprains
First of all, the individual must continue to stay active and appropriately stretch and/or exercise their neck. The goal is to keep moving the neck as normally as possible. Initially, the symptoms may be painful and the individual may require some time to rest their neck. Nonetheless, gently exercising the neck as soon as the individual is able to can help. It�s important to now allow the structures of the neck to stiffen up and become tight.
The individual can also gradually increase the range of motion in their neck. Every few hours, gentle movements of the neck in each direction, several times a day can help avoid stiffness in the muscles and other tissues of the neck. Continuing with normal activities is crucial at this point, natural movements of the neck will not cause further damage.
Practicing healthy postural habits can also be beneficial to ease the symptoms of whiplash. While at work or during any other situation of prolonged sitting, the individual should check the posture they are sitting in. Make sure you are sitting upright, not with your head flexed forward along with a stooped back. Several stretches and exercises, such as yoga and pilates, have been used to improve neck posture, however, there is not enough evidence to support the benefits of these techniques when improving posture. In addition, a firm supporting pillow can also help ease the symptoms when sleeping. The individual should avoid using more than one pillow at this time, to avoid further injury.
Chiropractic treatment is a common form of alternative treatment that is frequently used to treat whiplash and many other types of injuries and conditions. Chiropractic care focuses on musculoskeletal injuries and condition, particularly soft-tissue injuries like whiplash, including nervous system dysfunctions. A chiropractor often utilizes gentle spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to carefully restore the natural alignment of the spine and its surrounding structures in the case a subluxation is present. By doing so, these gentle treatments can relieve the stress and pressure being placed against the tissues around the spine, ultimately reducing the painful symptoms. Additionally, the chiropractic adjustments a chiropractor performs can help strengthen the muscles and other tissues of the affected area, helping to restore the original flexibility and mobility of the structures of the body.
A chiropractor may additionally recommend a series of stretches and/or exercises to help speed up the rehabilitation process and improve the individual�s condition through muscle strength, flexibility and mobility. As with any other type of treatment for an injury or condition, time and patience are required to ensure a proper recovery. Depending on the severity of the individual�s whiplash, the recovery process can differ for each person.
Preventing Whiplash with Head Restraints
Vehicles today are being built to minimize the impact from the force of a collision against the body, particularly in the region of the neck and back. All vehicles include head restraints on the vehicle seats which can further help avoid whiplash and other types of neck injuries or conditions. �The head restraint should be placed as high as the top of the head. A properly adjusted head restraint can help reduce the chance of experiencing a serious whiplash injury or other type of neck damage as this can help stop or reduce the head from jolting backwards in an automobile accident. Safety is important and although an auto collision can be an unwanted incident, preventing harm through a few simple methods can make a tremendous difference.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
An automobile accident often results in minimum vehicle damage, however, on the other side of the spectrum, the injuries an individual sustains from a car wreck can be devastating. Various types of accidents can affect a person�s well-being and auto accidents are considered to be some of the most troublesome towards an individual�s health. Apart from causing financial losses, suffering a complicating injury or underlying condition as a result of the auto accident can alter an individual�s lifestyle.
First Steps After an Accident
With that intention, it�s crucial to seek professional assistance to properly manage the physical, mental and material damage an individual may have suffered after a traffic collision. First, the victim of an auto accident should seek immediate medical attention to address any serious injuries as soon as possible. If the accident is minor in nature, and the vehicle itself is equipped with a first-aid kit, the individual may utilize these as a means before professional help arrives. Trauma and shock are often the biggest complications of accidents and it is crucial to treat them as early as possible. The auto accident victim must be kept calms and composed at all times to avoid further injuries.
The next essential step following an automobile accident is to immediately take the victim to the nearest medical facility available. Most frequently, those involved in a car wreck will be transported to the emergency room, or ER, where they will receive basic care for their wounds. Sometimes, the injuries sustained during the incident may appear minor and although there may be no bone fractures or open wounds, there could be the risk of soft-tissue injuries, which are not clearly visible without proper evaluations and testing. Because the professional staff of the ER are often only capable of treating immediately threatening wounds and may prescribe medications to temporarily relieve the painful symptoms following an auto accident, it�s crucial to ensure that the involved individual seeks a full examination from a qualified doctor who specializes in auto accident injuries to rule out the possibility of other, much more serious types of injuries or conditions. This could certainly prevent aggravating an injury and, in some situations, it could also make a difference between life and death.
The Importance of Visiting A Doctor
Aside from reducing the risk of further complications, there are various other reasons why it�s important to seek immediate medical attention from a car accident specialist. Healthcare professionals whom specialize in car accident injuries can help properly diagnose an individual�s injuries or conditions. According to the findings, these capable healthcare professionals can effectively plan the next course of treatment. Furthermost, many doctors and even primary healthcare centers have the required diagnostic tools for pathological tests, such as X-rays. These can be extremely useful because many injuries may not be immediately visible following an automobile accident.
For example, damage or injury to the bone, joints, muscles and ligaments, as well as complications to other types of tissues in the body, can be common after an accident, however, because these may often not result in open-wounds, they may be overlooked. If left untreated, a majority of these complications could lead to further damage or injury. Due to the tremendous force from a car wreck, fractures occur frequently. A basic X-ray, MRI or other types of scans may be needed to rule out the possibility of a bone fracture in the body.
Many auto accidents could also lead to damage or injury to vital organs, such as the lungs, liver, kidney and commonly, the brain. Brain concussions, internal bleeding and puncture wounds to vital organs could be life-threatening and should therefore be immediately ruled out with the use of the above mentioned diagnostic tools.
In other cases, the victim involved may be in need of a blood transfusion. Serious accidents could lead to blood loss and getting medical help as early as possible is also crucial in these instances. Qualified doctors and most primary medical centers have the required quantity and group of blood an individual might need after a serious automobile accident.
Insurance Related Issues
A majority of auto accident victims end up filing personal injury claims under the�insurance companies in order to receive the proper compensation they need and deserve for their injuries. It’s essential for the involved victims to take photographs of the accidents. The healthcare professional providing�treatment to the affected individuals of a car crash can help provide the insurance company with the necessary information required to complete a personal insurance claim. That�s why it�s also important to seek medical attention immediately after an accident. This will help strengthen the insurance claim quite significantly. A preliminary investigation report from the police would also be needed because it will add a legal dimension to the entire accident which could additionally help get the best possible insurance claim. �For those who choose to delay their treatment, not only are they at risk of worsening symptoms from injuries or underlying conditions, if they delay their treatment further, they could have a difficult time with the insurance company.
A majority of chiropractors, as well as other healthcare professionals, are specialized and experienced in treating injuries and trauma caused by an automobile accident. Their professional approach offers some of the best treatments, whether it�s relieving pain caused by pressure being placed on the spinal nerves or numbness caused by stress being imposed on spinal nerves, chiropractors are trained to handle injuries and conditions professionally, especially automobile accident injuries.
Symptoms Following an Auto Accident
When a person suffers an automobile accident, there are several common symptoms one must look out for. The presence of any of the following symptoms could indicate a possible injury or condition and must therefore be immediately examined. The most common symptoms include: pain and discomfort on the neck, back, and upper extremities, tingling sensations and numbness in various parts of the body, dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness.
Being aware of these symptoms is essential as some of these could signal the need for immediate medical attention. For example, pain and discomfort along with dizziness could occur because of hemorrhage to the brain due to concussion from the sudden impact of an auto accident. Being aware of the consequences certain symptoms indicate could help avoid undesirable circumstances.
Different Treatments for Injury
Fortunately, there are many different types of treatments and therapies available to help an individual recover from their automobile accident injures. Depending on the type of injury, the severity of the harm and the overall condition of the victim, various treatment methods are available to accommodate the individual.
Without a doubt, pain and other symptoms caused by injury from an auto collision is a big concern for those who suffer from these circumstances. Many doctors often prescribe pain killers or NSAIDS to help relieve the painful symptoms, however, these can have various side effects and, because they don�t directly treat the underlying issue, prescribed medications only function temporarily to reduce the pain and discomfort. Different types of injections are also available and used regularly for treating pain from trauma and other issues associated with auto accidents, however, as mentioned before, these can also have side effects and may only offer temporary relief without actually treating the problem. When it comes to finding the proper treatment in case of an auto accident, the individual must keep in mind to seek help from a specialist who can offer to restore their overall health without simply masking the issue.
Many healthcare specialists utilize a procedure known as Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy, or CFRN. This complex procedure can be beneficial for some patients. CFRN works by artificially interrupting the signals being sent by certain nerves to the brain which could trigger pain in individuals who suffered an auto accident. This procedure has been found to be useful in reducing the levels of pain an individual experiences which could be unbearable for some people. Pain which is beyond the threshold limit could lead to extreme trauma and shock. This could lead to further complications but, in many cases, it could trigger other issues including heart related problems and neurological disorders.
Physical therapy is considered to be a common and useful primary treatment option for victims of an automobile accident. Many individuals have reported relief from their back pain, neck pain, whiplash and various other types or injuries that could impact vital organs and other types of tissues. Physical therapists may also include heat and cold therapy, according to the individual�s type of injuries. The application of heat therapy helps decrease transmissions of pain signals to the brain, increases the flow of oxygen and can help restore flexibility to the affected regions. The application of cold therapy can also help reduce pain and discomfort, but additionally, cold therapy can help decrease swelling.
Last but not least, chiropractic treatment is recognized as the most popular, alternative treatment option to care for injuries and/or conditions caused after an automobile accident. Chiropractors focus on the body as a whole by restoring the natural alignment of the spine. Chiropractors specialize on a wide variety of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions as well as nervous system dysfunctions. From neck pain and whiplash to low back pain, chiropractic care commonly utilizes spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to carefully re-align the spine and its surrounding structures. After a thorough examination and diagnosis to determine the individual�s specific type of complications, a treatment plan may be developed accordingly to gradually rehabilitate the individual and restore their original health.
Additionally, a chiropractor may also recommend several types of stretches and exercises to increase the individual�s strength, improve their flexibility and mobility and ultimately speed up the rehabilitation process. A combination of the appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises along with chiropractic treatment could be extremely useful in helping the individual overcome the hardships of an automobile accident.
Recovering from Auto Injuries
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
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