From veering off the road to a full recovery, car accident injuries require more than emergency medical care. While the initial treatment focuses on immediate injuries, physical therapy near me plays a critical role in long-term rehabilitation and recovery. PT charts a course toward regained strength and improved mobility, allowing for a smoother return to daily life.
What Happens After an Accident?
An automobile collision or accident can cause visible and hidden injuries. Visible injuries require immediate attention, often resulting in emergency room visits and ambulance rides. Hidden injuries may not present for several days or weeks and include:
- Concussions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash
Despite a delay in symptoms, hidden injuries are just as serious as visible injuries. Without proper care and attention, the damage can become permanent, resulting in lifelong pain and suffering.
After any serious collision, you should visit your physician and make an appointment with a physical therapist. Both medical professionals will perform an exam and assessment to determine the extent of your injuries and treatment plans.
Accident Recovery Route: Navigating With PT
A physical therapist near me and PTs in general are movement specialists. They understand how the body works and responds to injury. During the initial evaluation, the therapist performs a thorough assessment of your injuries, range of motion, strength, pain levels, and functional abilities. The exam lays the foundation for a personalized recovery plan.
PT uses techniques like massage, hot/cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and targeted therapies to alleviate pain and enhance comfort. The manual techniques and independent exercises they use also help to restore mobility and build strength.
Depending on the extent of the injuries and how they affect your balance, movement, and coordination, a therapist might use a combination of techniques. The most common tools in the PT’s bag are:
- Stretches
- Weight training
- Resistance training
A physical therapist will develop a personal routine aimed at your recovery. Your treatment is individualized to ensure the speediest and safest recovery.
Strategies for Recovery
Derby physical therapy uses a collaborative therapy design. You are an active participant in your recovery and therapy plan, and as an active participant, you are in control of the effectiveness of the therapy.
Focus and commitment are fundamental to your success. Therapy can be a slow-moving process, especially for people frustrated with their injuries and deficiencies. That said, PT depends on a series of progressive steps and techniques to slowly and confidently build your body up. So, one of the best strategies for successful PT and recovery is patience.
Patients who try to rush recovery typically wind up causing more injuries and pain. Learn to listen to your therapist and your body. Also, don’t neglect your mental health. If you are struggling after an accident, find a mental health professional to help you face the emotional struggles and anxiety.
The path to recovery may have detours and bumpy patches, but physical therapy can pave the way for a smoother journey. By closely working with a licensed and experienced therapist, you can alleviate pain, regain functionality, and improve your quality of life. Contact a local physical therapy practice to schedule a consultation.
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