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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!

Got Brain Fog? Here’s How Hormones Can Affect Memory

If you have ever walked into a room and promptly forgotten what you were searching for, you’re not alone. Hormonal changes are generally the main culprit of memory loss and difficulties with focus and sharpness. This condition is often referred to as “brain fog.” If you find yourself feeling foggy, Impact Medical Rejuvenation of Clearwater may have some insight for you. Read on to learn more.

Brain fog is a type of cognitive dysfunction that involves a lack of mental clarity, memory problems, lack of focus, and more. Some describe it as mental fatigue, but it doesn’t have to rule your life. Medications, stress, and diet can all be causes of brain fog but the most common is hormones, specifically estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These three hormones contribute to the blood flow in your brain and if imbalanced, can leave you feeling out of sorts. They are also present in brain chemistry so any decline can affect mental awareness rapidly. As several of these hormones work together to produce a clear mind, one hormone imbalance creates a domino effect on your mental function.

As women experience perimenopause and menopause, their estrogen levels drop. This decrease plays directly into memory and cognition issues. Testosterone contributes to mental sharpness through its impact on artery muscles and nerves. Both high and low levels of this hormone can affect cognitive function. For this, many are turning to bio-identical hormone optimization therapy to revitalize and restore their hormonal balance. Bio-identical hormones are more compatible with the body, creating a more natural hormonal response while lessening the chances of experiencing unwanted side effects. In addition to reducing brain fog, it may also help you enjoy more restful sleep, boost your mood, increase your libido, and improve weight loss among other benefits.

Don’t let a foggy day steal your sunshine! Call Impact Medical Rejuvenation of Clearwater at (727) 292-0200 to learn more about hormone optimization therapy today.

What Are the Best Stretches for Car Accident Injury Recovery?

Even the most minor fender bender can lead to an injury. If you’ve been in a car accident and have apparent injuries, the decision to visit a doctor is an obvious one. Unfortunately, there are other injuries that may not present themselves right away.

Visiting a chiropractor is essential after an accident, even if you think you feel fine. In addition to making sure you don’t have sustained hidden injuries that can cause problems later, they can suggest exercises and stretches to minimize the severity of potential pain. Here are some of the best stretches you can do to support your recovery after a car accident.

Seated Neck Release

Suffering from neck pain following a car accident? The Seated Neck Release targets the sides of your neck. Start by sitting on the floor in a cross-legged position. As you extend your right arm next to your right knee, place your left hand atop your head and tile your head to the left. As you gently apply pressure with your hand, increase the stretch for up to 30 seconds. Slowly release, then repeat the process on the other side.

Glute Bridge

The glute bridge helps relieve pain in your lower back while improving your posture at the same time. As you lie on your back with your hands at your side, feet flat on the ground, push your heels down to raise your hips off the ground. Your body should form a straight line from shoulder to knees. Remain in this position as long as it feels comfortable, then lower your hips back down.

Seated Clasping Neck Stretch

This stretch helps relieve some of the pain associated with injuries like whiplash. It pinpoints the back of your neck, while alleviating back muscle pain, too. As you sit on the floor or in a chair, clasp your hands and rest your palms on the back of the head. Grind your hips into the seat as you sit with a tall spine, then press your hands down toward your thighs. As you do so, tuck your chin into your chest. As you pull your head away from your shoulders, use the heels of your palms and press down to deepen the stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times daily.

Bird Dog

This simple core stretch helps relieve low back pain while promoting proper posture and improving range of motion. You’ll need an exercise mat to perform this stretch, and maybe a mirror to check your alignment.

Start by getting on your hands and knees, keeping your back parallel to the ground. Then, extend your left arm and your right leg, holding the position for 30 seconds. Make sure to engage your ab muscles to maintain a neutral spine. Slowly lower your arm and leg back into place, then repeat the process for the right arm and left leg.

Start Your Journey to Recovery After a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a wreck, getting a professional opinion from a trusted chiropractor is your first step toward recovery. Even if you think you haven’t been hurt, injuries can present themselves within a matter of weeks. Reach out to the team at Impact Medical Group of Lutz today at (813) 536-0373 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to recovery.

Summer Biking Safety Tips from A Physical Therapist

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy all the fantastic bike trails that Florida has to offer. The Impact Medical Group of St. Petersburg’s physical therapy team wants to make sure that you bike safely. So, before you head out on your next adventure, read these three biking safety tips that can’t be missed.

1. Check your equipment

This foundational step ensures safety for your bike and wellness! Before starting a ride, especially a long-distance one, check that your equipment is in good condition. Brakes, chains, tires, and other important components should be in good working order and fit securely when ridden. Knee pain can begin when a saddle or cleat is positioned incorrectly. Ensure that the seat height allows for a slight bend in the knee at the bottom of the pedaling motion and refrain from rocking your hips side to side.

2. Getting started

If you are new to cycling or want to level up your cycling game, confirm you are physically fit enough to withstand the ride. Building stamina and tolerance for sitting are essential before hitting the road. Though cycling power comes from the hips and knees, a strong core creates the stability and endurance needed to succeed. Improper form from weak deep abdominal strength can cause low back pain and if you start to shift your trunk unevenly, shoulder and neck pain may occur. Working with a professional can help you strengthen these muscles before you saddle up.

3. Road Rules

Manners matter, especially when biking. Cyclists and motorists often share the same responsibilities and rights on Florida roads. The best way to communicate with those around you is through verbal and hand signals. Use these when passing other riders, changing direction, or stopping ahead. Practice good etiquette by understanding the rules of the road and making yourself aware of any specific rules in your area.

Summertime and the biking’s easy. Well, it could be. If you need assistance getting your body cycle-ready, call Impact Medical Group of St. Petersburg at (727) 722-8103 or send a message to speak with our team.