Even a minor car accident can cause serious physical trauma. From whiplash and soft tissue damage to joint injuries and chronic pain, auto accidents often lead to lingering symptoms that don’t fully resolve without the right care. Our physical therapists specialize in auto-injury rehabilitation—helping you recover mobility, reduce pain, and return to normal life as quickly and safely as possible.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Physical therapy can effectively treat a wide range of injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents, including:
- Whiplash and neck strain
- Back pain or disc injuries
- Shoulder trauma
- Knee and hip injuries
- Concussions and post-concussion symptoms
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Headaches and migraines
- Joint stiffness or instability
How Physical Therapy Helps After an Auto Injury
1. Comprehensive Injury Assessment
We begin with a thorough physical exam and functional evaluation. This includes posture, movement, joint mobility, muscle strength, and neurological symptoms like numbness or dizziness.
2. Pain and Inflammation Management
We use targeted treatments to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, including:
- Manual therapy
- Ice/heat application
- Electrical stimulation (TENS)
- Ultrasound or dry needling (if appropriate)
3. Restoring Mobility and Function
Accidents can cause stiffness and restricted movement. PT helps restore full joint range of motion and muscle flexibility using stretching, mobilization, and active movement therapy.
4. Strengthening Injured Areas
We guide you through progressive strengthening exercises to restore stability to injured muscles and joints, reducing the risk of re-injury.
5. Balance and Coordination Training
If your injury has affected your balance or nervous system, we use neuromuscular training to help retrain movement patterns and improve stability.
6. Postural and Ergonomic Correction
Poor posture after an accident can worsen symptoms. We help correct body mechanics, especially for sitting, standing, or driving postures.
7. Return-to-Activity Planning
Whether your goal is to return to work, driving, or recreational activities, we create a step-by-step plan to help you do so safely and confidently.
Benefits of Auto-Injury Physical Therapy
- Faster recovery time
- Reduced reliance on pain medication
- Improved flexibility and strength
- Better long-term outcomes
- Non-invasive, drug-free care
- Prevents chronic pain from untreated injuries
