Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVAs) can result in a wide range of injuries, many of which require physiotherapy for effective management and recovery. Physiotherapy is a vital component of rehabilitation, helping patients regain function, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life. Here’s an overview of the conditions commonly treated through motor vehicle accident physiotherapy Edmonton.
Whiplash:
Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries following a car accident, particularly in rear-end collisions. This condition occurs when the neck is rapidly jolted back and forth, leading to soft tissue damage. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion. MVA physiotherapy focuses on restoring flexibility and strength to the neck muscles, improving posture, and reducing pain through manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises.
Back pain:
Back pain is another common consequence of motor vehicle accidents, often resulting from the impact force during the collision. Injuries to the spinal discs, muscles, and ligaments can lead to acute or chronic pain, limited mobility, and discomfort. Physiotherapists help alleviate back pain by using manual therapies such as joint mobilization, massage, and prescribed exercises to strengthen the core and stabilise the spine, eventually improving mobility and reducing pain.
Shoulder injuries:
In an accident, the shoulder can suffer from injuries such as rotator cuff tears, dislocations, or strains due to the forceful impact or bracing against the steering wheel. Shoulder injuries can lead to pain, weakness, and restricted movement, making daily tasks difficult. Physiotherapy treatment may involve modalities like ultrasound, manual therapy, and targeted exercises to improve shoulder strength and flexibility while reducing pain.
Soft tissue injuries:
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, are common after an MVA and can affect various parts of the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries may lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving. MVA physiotherapy helps restore normal function through techniques like stretching, massage, and exercises that promote tissue healing and flexibility.
Concussions and dizziness:
While physiotherapy is not a primary treatment for concussions, physiotherapists can help manage symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and balance issues that sometimes follow a head injury in an MVA. Vestibular rehabilitation, a specialized area of physiotherapy, focuses on exercises designed to restore balance and coordination, helping patients manage dizziness and other post-concussion symptoms.