Can You Get Nerve Damage from A Car Accident?

Your nerves are housed in the spine which is the area that’s most commonly impacted during a car accident. Therefore, any injuries relating to the spine can be followed by nerve damage. But how exactly does this happen, and what can you do to treat it? The experts at Impact Medical Brandon are here to teach you everything you need to know about how to spot the symptoms and stop the damage from spreading.

How Does a Car Crash Cause Nerve Damage?

During a car accident, your spine can be directly impacted leading to some form of misalignment. Whiplash is the most common injury that can occur which typically happens in the head and neck area but is still directly connected to the spine. Any type of damage to the spine can affect the nerves located within by pinching or compressing them, otherwise known as nerve damage. Although less common, nerve damage can also occur in the arms.

Common Symptoms of Post-Accident Nerve Damage

When it comes to nerve damage, some of the most common symptoms that victims tend to experience involve shooting or radiating pain in the affected area. This can progress into a numbing, tingling, and/or prickling sensation which can be incredibly uncomfortable and difficult to ignore. In some cases, you may also notice a decrease in muscle strength.

As the symptoms progress, you may also experience increased sensitivity and occasional muscle spasms that can be debilitating and difficult to control. General pain and discomfort is common, but burning sensations are a bit more rare although still very unpleasant. It’s best to keep in mind that everyone’s experiences are very different and can yield various results.

No matter the types of symptoms you are enduring, many of them can lead to chronic pain that’ll last the rest of your life if you don’t seek treatment promptly.

Using Physical Therapy to Treat Nerve Damage

So what can you do about nerve damage and all of the unwelcome symptoms that accompany it? Physical therapy has been proven to manage the pain and relieve any stiffness in the joints. This is because PT can directly target the compression and trauma in the nerves through various movements and exercises done by a qualified doctor. Specific treatments may include nerve gliding and balance activities on top of the main movement exercises. Chiropractic care can also be done alongside PT in order to restore blood flow which is essential for brain functions like memory recall and cognitive functions.

Types of Treatment

Physical Therapy	Chiropractic Care
● Improves range of motion ● Restores lost muscle strength	● Lessens inflammation in the tendons, ligaments, and muscles

The Best Physical Therapists in Brandon

When it comes to treating nerve damage, it’s better to get started sooner than later as your symptoms could develop into chronic issues that are irreversible. To ensure the best results, visit the best physical therapists and chiropractors in the area at Impact Medical Brandon! We’ll give you a thorough examination and create a fully personal treatment plan for fast and optimal recovery. Call (813) 522-8885 today to schedule an appointment!