When You Should Consult a Doctor After a Fender Bender

Car accidents are very common; according to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are about 10.8 million crashes every year. Although fender benders are considered to be a minor type of crash, they can cause significant damage to your car as well as your body. Sometimes you may think you are fine after the crash, but symptoms may appear hours or days later, or be completely hidden until they develop into something more serious.

At One Accord Physical Therapy, we have the experience to identify hidden injuries you may have suffered from a fender bender. With offices to serve you in Casa Grande, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Mesa, Arizona, our team of highly skilled and respected physical therapists know exactly what to look for and which diagnostic tests can reveal hidden injuries from car accidents. We have the best treatment options to get you feeling better.

How your body reacts to danger

When you are in danger, your body reacts in ways you might not be aware of, to keep you safe. People often refer to this as the “fight or flight” reaction because your body readies you to either run away from danger or stay in order to fight off a threat. 

During this time, your heart rate increases to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. Your body releases a number of hormones, such as adrenaline, that give you a burst of energy and decrease the pain you feel. These can help you survive a dangerous situation by enabling you to get yourself to safety.

However, these same effects can result in you not being aware that you have been injured because you don’t feel the pain from the injury, and in your haste to get away, you can actually make any injuries worse. You may not be aware you have any injuries until hours or even days later.

When you should consult a doctor

If you experience any pain or soreness after a car accident, no matter how minor you thought it was, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. Even if you don’t have any discomfort, it is helpful to get an examination anyway, as some types of injuries don’t cause any symptoms but can cause lasting damage. 

In addition, it’s crucial to have any injuries diagnosed and documented within three days of the accident in order for them to be covered by insurance. Our doctors know what to do to ensure that everything is correctly recorded for insurance purposes.

There are many potentially hidden, yet serious, injuries that can be caused by a car accident, including concussions and whiplash. Both of these types of injuries have few outward signs, and may not have any symptoms, but can cause significant problems if not diagnosed and treated. 

Though most people associate whiplash with high speed, dramatic car crashes, it can occur during any type of crash Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a very rapid back and forth motion of the neck. It can cause long-term pain and disability and should be treated as soon as possible. 

Concussions are another serious type of injury that often doesn’t have any outward signs, and may not have any symptoms. A concussion is caused by a blow to the head or a sudden shaking of the head. They can cause headaches, confusion, dizziness, and visual disturbances and should be treated as soon as possible. 

A fender bender may seem like a minor accident, but it can cause serious injuries that can have a lasting effect. Getting checked out by a doctor soon after your accident ensures you get proper treatment for injuries both apparent and hidden.

To set up an appointment, call our office location that’s most convenient for you.