A side-impact auto accident is also commonly referred to as a T-bone accident. If you’ve recently been injured in a side-impact auto accident then you know how stressful and scary it can be when another car strikes the side of your car. T-bone accidents are common in intersections, like when someone runs a red light or doesn’t stop at a stop sign. Car accident injuries can cause you significant pain and discomfort, and it’s important that you find an auto injury chiropractor who knows how to best treat your injuries. Here are five common injuries that occur with side-impact car accidents.
1. Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common car accident injuries because of how your head and neck are not restrained like the rest of your body. As the driver or passenger in a car that takes an impact on the side, your head and neck can snap violently from side to side. This causes the muscles in your neck to stretch and strain out of their usual range of motion, leading to neck pain and stiff, tender neck muscles. There are many signs and symptoms of whiplash that you should watch out for, including headaches and difficulty turning your head from side to side.
An auto injury chiropractor can help manage your pain and other symptoms of whiplash while also addressing the root cause. Misalignments of the spine in your neck can contribute to your pain, so your chiropractor can use gentle adjustments to realign your spine. Gentle stretches and exercises help to restore range of motion in your neck and strengthen your neck muscles going forward.
2. Concussion
A concussion is actually the most common type of traumatic brain injury and should always be taken very seriously. When the force of the accident violently shakes your head and neck hard enough it can cause your brain to slam against the side of your skull. Normally, your brain is protected by a soft, flexible layer between your brain and your skull that helps to absorb the shock of your general movements. But an unexpected car accident can lead to a concussion.
Common symptoms of concussion include painful headaches, neck pain, dizziness, blurry vision, difficulty concentrating, and even nausea or vomiting. Your auto injury chiropractor will work with you to relieve any misalignments in your neck that may be making your concussion symptoms worse. Instead of using medications to relieve pain and inflammation, a chiropractor will use natural, non-invasive approaches to your care.
3. Broken Bones
When you’re in a side-impact car accident, one side of your body is at significantly more risk of injury, including broken bones. Commonly broken bones from a T-bone accident may include your shoulder, arm, or wrist because your arms are more obviously exposed. A broken bone, also known as a fracture, may also occur in your leg or foot.
An auto injury chiropractor can help you through the recovery process from a broken bone after a car accident injury. Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free option for pain management and can also help promote healing and recovery. Gentle, safe techniques can help strengthen the muscles that support your broken bone and encourage blood flow and nutrients to the affected area.
4. Spinal Cord Injury
A seat belt may be able to restrain your upper body in the event of a car accident, but unfortunately, it cannot prevent you from getting injured at all. A spinal cord injury may occur if your car is hit on the side as your body is shaken or jolted from side to side. In addition to straining the muscles that support your spine, it can also cause spinal injuries like a herniated disc. A herniated disc is also commonly known as a slipped disc, where one of the soft, spongy discs that separate each of your vertebrae is jolted out of place. This can put pressure on nearby nerves or even bone on bone pain.
An auto injury chiropractor will identify any misalignments in your spine, including any herniated discs. Gentle chiropractic adjustments will help relieve your pain and discomfort as your spine is restored to its proper posture and alignment. Massage and stretches can help strengthen the muscles that support your spine so your spine can fully heal.
AICA Orthopedics has a team of car accident doctors including auto injury chiropractors to help with all types of injuries. No matter what type of accident you’ve been in, the doctors at AICA Orthopedics will develop an individualized treatment plan just for you!
