No matter if you have totalled your vehicle or if you were just in a fender bender the severity of the accident doesn’t always determine if you have been injured. You may have no visible broken bones, scrapes, cuts or even bruises, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t hurt.
Over half of people who are involved in auto accidents report some level of pain in their lower back when the crash is a rear impact crash. When side-impact crashes occur the number rises even higher to nearly 75%. Stiffness and neck pain are the next two chief complaints most reported.
Alongside of back and neck pain auto accidents often leave you at first feeling ok. You can get up and walk away from the accident and feel mobile. The reason is that your body releases dopamine and other naturally produced chemicals into your bloodstream in order to keep you going in emergency circumstances.
Once the initial shock has worn off you often begin to feel the effects of the impact. This usually occurs a good 24 hours later. You may begin to experience headaches or neck pain where it was not present before. It is vital to get them checked out as they could be a sign of neck, brain, or head injury.
Whiplash is the number one injury associated with car accidents. Whiplash can be serious and have lasting effects. Whiplash requires a proper medical diagnosis. Tingling and numbness in the arms and hands are also symptoms of whiplash.
Back pain could be a sign that ligaments or muscles have become misaligned or bruised. If the pain is sharp and severe you may also have pinched or damaged nerve.
In a rare few cases, personality changes or even the way you are able to physically function may be modified. These can include movement problems, memory issues, vision issues, depression, and mood changes. If these happen, you may have a brain injury and its important to be seen as soon as possible.
Thought you don’t hear much about it PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can also be also linked to major auto accidents. Flashbacks or nightmares may be experienced over and over again by drivers and or passengers. Those involved in major accidents may be very uncomfortable driving or riding in a car for some time after the accident.
In Florida, you have 13 days to seek treatment in order for it to be covered under your automobile’s PIP insurance (personal injury protection). If you have been in an accident give the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. a call at 239-332-2555. www.drkasters.com.