A “fender bender” doesn’t do much damage to a car, so it probably can’t do much damage to the driver or passengers, right? Think again.
Low-impact auto accidents have the reputation of not being serious accidents, but it’s actually a dangerous myth. Leaving injuries to go untreated after a minor crash can create further problems, so it’s always a good idea to see a St. Petersburg car accident chiropractor following a crash to examine you for injuries and create a medical record confirming your injuries for insurance purposes. Read on to understand the health and injury risks of low-impact auto accidents.
The “Low-Impact” Myth
Cars are huge, heavy, hulking machines that weigh over a ton, so even getting hit lightly from behind or at a low speed can cause some major impacts on the body.
If you feel okay following a car accident, that’s great, but don’t assume you’re in the clear. Injuries may not begin to show immediately following the crash. Whiplash, in particular, can take days to show up.
The Biggest Concern: Whiplash
Even at low speeds, neck injuries are common with car accidents, especially when your vehicle is struck from behind by another vehicle. Whiplash is the biggest concern because the sudden impact can cause the cervical spine (neck) to hyperextend and then fall back, caused by the motion of the car.
Whiplash is more than just neck soreness, it’s your head and neck in hyperflexion as they try to recover from the accident. It damages the soft tissue in the neck, including ligaments, nerves, discs, and muscles, and can cause pain and stiffness that may radiate through the upper back and limbs. It can also lead to dizziness.
Symptoms of Low-Impact Auto Injury
If you notice any of the following symptoms following a low-impact car crash, make an appointment with a trusted Tampa Bay chiropractor for an examination:
- Arm numbness
- Soreness
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Neck pain
- Headache
- Nausea
- Shortness of Breath
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
The Risks of Letting Injuries Go Untreated
Ignoring signs of injuries can make matters worse. You need an accurate diagnosis as early as you can to understand what kind of injuries you’re dealing with and the best path to recovery.
The risks of forgoing treatment include a loss of your range of motion, constant headaches, swelling, or stiffness.
Small Accidents Still Matter
When in doubt, make an appointment with a doctor your trust following any car accident, whether small or large. Getting medical documentation of your injuries will be to your benefit if you need to make a claim, and identifying any injuries earlier on will lead to faster healing.
If you’re in the St. Petersburg or greater Tampa Bay area, that means making an appointment with Sea Change Wellness Chiropractic. Make an appointment with the chiropractors Tampa Bay residents trust.
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