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Signs You May Have a Hidden Injury After a Car Crash

Signs You May Have a Hidden Injury After a Car Crash

Experiencing a car crash can be a traumatic event, and while visible injuries such as cuts and bruises are easy to identify, hidden injuries can sometimes go unnoticed. At Sabet Chiropractic, serving the communities of Lake Elsinore and Hemet, California, we want to help you become aware of the signs you may have a hidden injury after a car crash. Dr. Sabet is an experienced car accident chiropractor who is here to ensure you receive the necessary care, which can support your recovery as you navigate back to your daily activities.

The Hidden Nature of Car Accident Injuries

After an auto accident, your body may go into shock, masking pain and other symptoms. This phenomenon can lead to hidden injuries that may not manifest until days or even weeks later, which is why it's important to get a medical examination right after the car crash. Common types of hidden injuries include whiplash, concussions, herniated discs, and soft tissue injuries. While you might feel fine immediately after the crash, it is essential to be vigilant about any changes in your body and seek advice from a car accident chiropractor if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

Common Car Accident Injury Types

1. Direct Impact Injuries

Direct impact injuries occur when the body collides with an object during a crash, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt. These injuries can lead to contusions, lacerations, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, or fractures, particularly in areas like the face, chest, and extremities. For instance, a driver's torso may impact the steering wheel, resulting in rib fractures or internal injuries.

2. Coup Injuries

Coup injuries happen when the brain strikes the inside of the skull due to rapid deceleration during a collision. This type of injury can occur if the head moves forward suddenly and then comes to a stop, causing the brain to collide with the frontal part of the skull. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness, confusion, or cognitive difficulties. Coup injuries are often associated with concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.

3. Countercoup Injuries

Countercoup injuries are the opposite of coup injuries. They occur when the brain bounces back and strikes the opposite side of the skull after an initial impact. For example, if a person’s head moves forward and then violently recoils backward, the brain can damage the posterior part of the skull. This type of injury can result in symptoms similar to those of coup injuries, including headaches, dizziness, and memory problems.

4. Diffuse Axonal Injuries

Diffuse axonal injuries (DAI) are severe brain injuries caused by the brain's movement within the skull during rapid acceleration or deceleration, often seen in high-impact collisions. DAI occurs at the level of the axons—the long, threadlike parts of nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals. Because this injury affects the brain's wiring, it can lead to widespread functional impairments, including unconsciousness, difficulties with coordination, emotional distress, and long-term cognitive deficits.

Signs of Hidden Injuries

Chronic Pain

If you experience persistent pain in your neck, back, or shoulders, it may be a sign whiplash - an extremely common hidden injury after a car crash. This type of injury often results from the sudden jerk of the head during a collision. Residents near the beautiful Lake Elsinore may think that a scenic drive should be relaxing, but remember that car crashes can happen anywhere.

Headaches

Recurrent headaches, particularly those that differ from your typical experience, can signal a hidden injury. These headaches can stem from neck injuries or concussions sustained during the crash. If you live in Hemet and find that you’re suddenly coping with headaches that you didn't have before, it might be time to consult a professional.

Numbness or Tingling

If you experience numbness or tingling in your limbs, particularly in your arms and legs, it could point to nerve damage or a herniated disc resulting from the crash. The sensations of this hidden injury after a car crash can be subtle at first, but they should never be ignored. Beware while you’re out exploring local attractions; you don't want to risk exacerbating an undiagnosed injury.

Dizziness or Balance Issues

Another hidden injury after a car crash is feeling dizzy or having trouble maintaining your balance could indicate a concussion or neck injury. Make sure to monitor these symptoms closely, as they can also affect your daily activities, such as enjoying the beautiful parks in our area, like Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet.

Fatigue

Feelings of unexplained fatigue can accompany hidden injuries, particularly if your body is working harder to heal itself. You might find yourself less energetic while visiting familiar spots like the Lake Elsinore Outlet Center. Stay attuned to changes in your energy levels post-accident, as this may be an indication of deeper issues.

Abdominal Pain or Swelling

These symptoms could be a sign of internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or inflammation of the abdominal organs. It’s essential to recognize that the impact of a collision can cause forces to act on your body that may not be immediately evident. For instance, a seatbelt can exert pressure on the abdomen during a crash, potentially leading to injuries that manifest as pain or swelling.

Changes in Behavior

Experiencing changes in behavior after an auto accident can be a significant indicator of hidden injuries, particularly those affecting the brain. These behavioral changes may manifest as increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or even depression—often related to concussions or traumatic brain injuries sustained during the impact. The psychological impact of the car crash itself, coupled with any physical injuries, can lead to heightened stress and emotional responses, and even to post-traumatic stress disorder. It's essential to recognize that these changes may not only affect your social interactions but can also influence your daily functioning and overall quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing unusual behavioral shifts following a car crash, seeking a professional medical evaluation is crucial to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Signs You May Have a Hidden Injury After a Car Crash

Taking prompt action after an auto accident is crucial. Early detection and proper treatment of hidden injuries can prevent long-term complications. As a trusted car accident chiropractor, Sabet Chiropractic focuses on understanding the unique needs of our patients in Lake Elsinore and Hemet. We can help identify issues you may not even be aware of through thorough evaluations and tailored treatment plans.

How a Chiropractor Can Help With A Hidden Injury After a Car Crash

At Sabet Chiropractic, we understand that dealing with a hidden injury after a car crash can significantly impact your quality of life. Our role as a car accident chiropractor is to help identify and treat these injuries, allowing you to regain your health and well-being. Hidden injuries, if left unnoticed and untreated, can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications. Here are some specific types of injuries we commonly see and how our chiropractic medical care can help.

Whiplash: A prevalent injury from abrupt head movement, whiplash can cause neck pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion and headaches. We use spinal manipulation techniques to realign the cervical spine, relieve nerve pressure, and promote healing in the surrounding muscles.

Herniated Discs: These common injuries occur when the disc material protrudes, leading to pain and numbness. Our chiropractic assessments allow us to identify herniated discs. We provide targeted spinal adjustments and therapeutic exercises to alleviate pressure and enhance mobility.

Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains and sprains from overstretched muscles or ligaments often develop gradually and result in soft tissue damage. At Sabet Chiropractic, we focus on soft tissue therapy to reduce inflammation and pain, using techniques like massage and myofascial release to promote healing.

Concussions & Traumatic Brain Injuries: Following a crash, concussions can lead to headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues. While chiropractic care does not directly treat concussions and we recommend getting medical treatment, gentle spinal adjustments can support overall nervous system function and recovery through rehabilitation exercises focusing on coordination and balance.

Comprehensive Care and Rehabilitation

At Sabet Chiropractic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to recovery. Following a thorough evaluation, we develop customized treatment plans that address each patient's unique set of symptoms and conditions. Our services include:

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: To realign the spine and improve overall function.
  • Rehabilitative Exercises: To strengthen muscles and restore mobility, tailored to your specific needs.
  • Nutritional Guidance: To support healing and recovery through holistic lifestyle choices.

Connclusion

In conclusion, there are many possibilities to have a hidden injury after a car crash. Recognizing and addressing these injuries promptly is crucial for effective recovery and to prevent long-term complications. At Sabet Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you receive the best treatment possible.

If you or someone you know has been an auto accident victim, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Reach out to us for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Additionally, we understand that navigating the complexities of personal injury claims and insurance companies can be daunting. That’s why we can connect you with experienced personal injury lawyers who can help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve for your injuries.

Contact Sabet Chiropractic today to get help dealing with your hidden injury after a car crash and to begin your journey to recovery. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

May 14, 2024
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