Most Common Auto Injuries

  • Whiplash Injury

    A whiplash injury occurs when the head abruptly moves backward and forward. It can badly hurt the soft tissues in the neck. It often happens during a car accident and contact sports.

    Signs & Symptoms

    • 1.   Neck & upper back pain.
    • 2.   Headaches & dizziness.
    • 3.   Stiff neck.
    • 4.   Weakness or shooting pain to the arm.
    • 5.   Difficulty turning head.

    Recovery Guide

    • 1.   Go to the ER with severe symptoms.
    • 2.   Take over-the-counter pain pills.
    • 3.   Apply ice as often.
    • 4.   Rest.
    • 5.   See a doctor.

  • Seatbelt Injury

    Seat belts can save your life in a car accident, but it can also hurt you. The strap itself can cause shoulder sprain, whiplash, chest injuries, bruising, and bleeding.

    Signs & Symptoms

    • 1.   Depends on the area affected.
    • 2.   Pain & bruising.
    • 3.   Swelling
    • 4.   Difficulty turning head and raising arms.
    • 5.   Weakness & numbness.

    The Key To Recovery

    • 1.   Go to the ER if symptoms are worse.
    • 2.   Take over-the-counter medicine.
    • 3.   Ice to control inflammation.
    • 4.   Rest.
    • 5.   See a doctor or a PT.

  • Dashboard Injury

    A dashboard injury occurs when the driver’s or passenger’s bent knee is pushed against the dashboard. The motion forces the leg under the knee to move beyond its range, causing knee sprain or tear.

    Signs & Symptoms

    • 1.   Pain.
    • 2.   Swelling and bruising.
    • 3.   Can't bear weight.
    • 4.   Unstable knee.
    • 5.   Difficulty in walking.

    The Key To Recovery

    • 1.   Take painkillers.
    • 2.   Reduce inflammation by frequent icing.
    • 3.   Protect and stabilize the knee with bandaging.
    • 4.   Rest.
    • 5.   See an orthopedic doctor and a physical therapist.

  • Pedestrian Injury

    The pedestrian injury occurs because the driver lacks attention and failure to yield to someone crossing the street. The accident often changes the life of the victim due to multiple injuries.

    Signs & Symptoms

    • 1.   Depends on the body part injured.
    • 2.   Severe pain.
    • 3.   Contusions & bruising.
    • 4.   Muscle tears.
    • 5.   Broken bones.

    The Key To Recovery

    • 1.   Go to the ER or urgent care for immediate care.
    • 2.   Take pain medications.
    • 3.   Frequent icing to control inflammation.
    • 4.   Rest.
    • 5.   See an MD or a PT.

  • Persistent Pain Beyond 3 Months

    Persisted pain occurs after a car accident when the damaged soft tissues recovers slow. The injuries also creates other indirectly related symptoms. If you experience pain that persists, you need an MD or PT to treat you. Discuss a long term plan created especially for you. Your treatment must include exercise to improve your strength and function.

    Signs & Symptoms

    • 1.   Chronic pain.
    • 2.   Tiredness.
    • 3.   Headaches.
    • 4.   Frustrations.
    • 5.   Difficulty in daily functions.

    Recovery Guide

    • 1.   Control inflammation.
    • 2.   Manage pain.
    • 3.   Continue physical therapy treatment.
    • 4.   Exercise as prescribed by your therapist or doctor.
    • 5.   Medications.