Auto Accident Clinic Near You

Car Accident Injury Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions

What injuries are commonly caused by car accidents?

In a car accident, injuries can range from minor to severe, depending on various factors like the speed of the vehicles, the type of collision, use of safety devices, and more. However, some of the most common injuries include:

Whiplash: This is perhaps the most common car accident injury, particularly in rear-end collisions. It affects the neck and occurs when there is a sudden jerking motion that causes the neck to move beyond its normal range.

Cuts and Bruises: These are common due to broken glass, flying debris, or impact with hard surfaces within the vehicle.

Head Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries can occur due to the head hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows. Even if there are no visible injuries, the brain can be affected by the sudden deceleration of the head.

Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, hands, feet, and other parts of the body can happen due to the force of the collision.

Back Injuries: Herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, or other back problems can occur due to the impact of the collision.

It's important to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if injuries seem minor initially. Some injuries might not show immediate symptoms but could become apparent later. Always prioritize your health and safety after an accident.

How do you recover from a car accident?

After an exam from a healthcare professional, rest, ice or heat, medication can help with pain in the acute stages. Physical medicine is first line defense against car accident injuries, and will help restore motion, strength and function while reducing pain and stiffness.

Remember, each person's recovery process is different, depending on the severity of injuries and individual circumstances. Listening to your healthcare providers, staying proactive in your recovery, and taking care of both your physical and mental health are essential steps toward a successful recovery from a car accident.

We always recommend getting a thorough medical evaluation even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Follow the treatment plan outlined by your healthcare provider.

If recommended, engage in physiotherapy exercises to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Rehabilitation programs can aid in a speedier recovery. Our sister clinic Portland Wellness Care provides a number of services to help you alleviate pain and get you back to being better!

How does Portland Urgent Care & Portland Wellness Care treat auto accident injuries?

Portland Urgent Care has a team who specializes in treating car accident injuries with medical assessments and exams. With an on-site X-ray, we are able to diagnose injuries, as well as get treatment from a chiropractor or physiotherapist to help reduce the patient’s pain and restore function and return to normal activity and work.

Portland Urgent Care and Wellness Care specialize in treating auto accident injuries and we follows a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual's needs. Patients receive a thorough examination to assess the extent of injuries sustained in the accident. This evaluation might include physical exams, diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs), and discussions about symptoms and medical history.

Based on the assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy, or other modalities aimed at addressing specific injuries. Our chiropractors may use spinal adjustments, manipulations, or other techniques to address musculoskeletal issues, such as whiplash, back pain, or spinal misalignments resulting from the accident. Rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy are often included to restore mobility, strength, and function. This can help in recovering from injuries to muscles, ligaments, or joints. Soft tissue injuries like strains or sprains can benefit from massage therapy to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

We emphasizes a patient-centered approach, aiming to restore function, alleviate pain, and support the overall well-being of individuals recovering from auto accident injuries. They might focus on a combination of therapies to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs.

What is the importance of having an individualized treatment plan?

Having an individualized treatment plan after an auto accident is crucial for several reasons. Ultimately, an individualized treatment plan aims to provide the most effective and comprehensive care for the individual, taking into consideration their unique circumstances, injuries, and goals for recovery.

Every person's injuries and recovery process are unique. An individualized treatment plan takes into account the specific injuries, medical history, and personal circumstances of the individual, ensuring that the care provided is personalized and addresses their specific needs. Tailoring treatment to the individual's injuries and situation increases the likelihood of a more successful and efficient recovery. It allows healthcare providers to focus on the most relevant treatments and therapies for that particular person.

An individualized plan considers any pre-existing conditions or factors that might impact recovery. By addressing these factors, the plan aims to prevent complications or exacerbation of existing issues during the recovery process. Personalized treatment plans take into account the patient's responses to different therapies and medications. This allows for adjustments and modifications to the treatment regimen for maximum efficacy.

When individuals are involved in creating their treatment plan and understand why certain treatments are chosen, they are more likely to adhere to the plan. This enhances patient engagement and compliance, which are crucial for successful recovery. An individualized treatment plan often considers not only immediate recovery but also long-term health and well-being. It may include strategies for preventing future complications or managing chronic conditions that may arise as a result of the accident.

Should you see a medical professional after a car accident injury?

Yes, it is always helpful to see a medical professional after a car accident, even if there is no serious pain yet. It's common to see delayed pain after an accident, and a doctor can help you be aware of these issues. Here are some quick reasons why it's important to see a medical professional after a car accident.

Detection of Hidden Injuries: Not all injuries are immediately visible or symptomatic. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or soft tissue damage, might not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can conduct assessments to identify such hidden injuries.

Documentation for Insurance Claims: Seeking medical attention creates a documented record of injuries sustained in the accident. This documentation is vital when dealing with insurance claims or legal proceedings related to the accident.

Prevention of Complications: Prompt medical care can prevent minor injuries from worsening and can address underlying issues before they escalate into more significant problems.

Treatment and Rehabilitation: Timely medical care allows for proper treatment and rehabilitation of injuries. It can help manage pain, prevent complications, and expedite recovery.

Legal Purposes: If you plan to pursue legal action or an insurance claim related to the accident, having medical records and documentation of injuries is crucial for supporting your case.

Peace of Mind: Even if you feel okay after an accident, having a medical professional assess your condition can provide peace of mind and ensure there are no hidden injuries or complications.

Does auto insurance pay for treatment from a car accident?

Yes, in the state of Oregon, your auto insurance will pay 100% of your medical bills while you receive treatment and recover. Auto insurance coverage often includes provisions for medical treatment related to injuries sustained in a car accident. The specific coverage and extent of benefits can vary based on different factors:

Liability Coverage: If the accident was caused by another driver, their liability insurance might cover your medical expenses. This coverage depends on the at-fault driver's policy limits.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn't have enough coverage to pay for your medical bills, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage might cover your medical expenses.

Limits and Deductibles: Insurance policies have limits and deductibles that can affect how much is covered. Reviewing your policy or discussing it with your insurance provider can clarify these details.

Legal Factors: If the accident results in legal action, compensation for medical expenses might be sought through a settlement or court judgment.

It's important to contact your insurance company promptly after an accident to understand your coverage and start the claims process. Keep detailed records of medical expenses, treatments, and any other relevant documentation for insurance purposes.