Every Resource You Need for a Car Accident Injury, All Under One Roof
If you have been in an auto accident and suffered a car accident injury, it is vital that you see one of our physicians as soon as possible for several reasons. Not only can temporary pain become chronic if left undiagnosed, but you may also need to begin a treatment program within a specific timeframe to maintain your benefits and coverage.
In many cases, you have only a short window of 14 days to seek treatment and make a claim under an Auto Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy, or you risk forfeiting your benefits and medical coverage. You’ll receive the maximum benefits and coverage available under your policy when emergency injuries are diagnosed and reported right away.
Why Is It Important To Check For Head Injury After an Auto Accident?
It is essential to recognize the physical consequences of failing to seek immediate treatment after an auto accident. Your head, neck, and back are particularly vulnerable, and ignoring injuries in these areas can lead to chronic pain. Acute injuries such as fractured vertebrae, torn or bruised muscles from whiplash, head injuries, and concussions can result in lasting physical and neurological effects. If these injuries are not addressed promptly, temporary pain may develop into a permanent and chronic condition.
According to the Brain Injury Association of America, approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S. sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year, with motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) being a major contributor. Tragically, about 50,000 of these injuries are fatal, and many survivors experience long-term challenges. MVAs can result in various types of TBIs, including concussions and more severe injuries such as diffuse axonal injury. The CDC reports that nearly 90% of TBI-related hospitalizations in adults stem from falls and MVAs, highlighting the importance of prompt medical attention following an accident.
This is why consulting with a qualified auto accident physician is crucial. We can accurately diagnose your injuries, identify serious issues that may go unnoticed, recommend a comprehensive treatment plan, and address both the causes and effects of your accident—not just the symptoms. You can be confident that our team will utilize all available pain relief methods to alleviate your discomfort effectively and compassionately.
The Importance of Immediate Treatment After an Auto Accident for Whiplash & Head Injury
Your neck contains seven cervical vertebrae. When you are in a rear-end collision, your neck experiences intense force from behind, wrenching it backward and forward very quickly. The resulting injuries can include:
- Tears in neck muscles, tendons, or ligaments
- Pinched nerves
- Pain or numbness in shoulders, arms, or hands
It is extremely important to seek treatment immediately after a whiplash injury from a car accident. About 15% of whiplash injuries result in chronic neck pain that could have been prevented if properly diagnosed and treated soon after the injury, rather than weeks or months later. Depending on the severity of the whiplash and the areas of your neck affected, your neck may need stabilization with a brace, medication, therapy such as stretches and exercises, car accident rehab, and in some cases, surgery.
Delayed Car Accident Injuries
Many car accident injuries show symptoms immediately after a wreck, but others may take days or even weeks to appear once the shock and adrenaline wear off. These delayed-onset injuries can be serious and even life-threatening if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to seek medical care right after an accident and stay alert for new symptoms. If you notice any of the following issues in the days or weeks after a car accident, seek care immediately.
HEADACHES
A headache at any point after a car accident can be concerning and may indicate different types of injuries, from simple tension headaches to concussions. You should be evaluated immediately after an accident, but even if symptoms appear later, seek care to ensure your brain hasn’t sustained severe damage.
WHIPLASH
A whiplash injury occurs when the nerves, muscles, and spinal joints in your neck are overextended, impacting the soft tissue in your upper body. You might notice neck or shoulder pain, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, changes to your sleep patterns, or difficulty concentrating.
BACK PAIN
Back pain after a car accident can result from whiplash, sprains, soft tissue injuries, herniated discs, or spinal cord damage. If you feel numbness or tingling, it may indicate a pinched nerve. These conditions can be serious, so prompt medical attention is essential.
ORGAN DAMAGE
Internal organ damage can be life-threatening if untreated. Seek emergency care if you experience abdominal pain, digestive issues, fever, deep bruising, dizziness, or fainting—even if it’s been days or weeks since your accident.
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS
Any traumatic event can trigger PTSD symptoms, even without physical injuries. Signs may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, mood changes, and sleep difficulties. Seeking care early can help prevent long-term emotional distress.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us immediately. Our experienced practitioners can help identify and address your injuries after a car accident to ensure your recovery and peace of mind.
Contact Our Office to Schedule an Appointment!
Auto accidents can be overwhelming. You may not know where to start or what type of treatment you need. Let our team provide the comprehensive care you deserve—from diagnosis to treatment and ongoing support. We offer a wide range of pain management options, including physical therapy, targeted injections, auto accident rehab, and innovative Restorative Medicine treatments for eligible candidates.
Located in Pensacola, FL, our physicians proudly serve patients throughout Milton, Pace, and Gulf Breeze. Contact our office today to discuss your head injury, whiplash, or pain management options and schedule your appointment.