Things You Can Do to Ensure the Best Chance of a Good Result
Any motor vehicle accident, even one that seems like a minor fender-bender, can have serious medical consequences. What you do in the immediate aftermath of a collision or other wreck can make a significant difference in the extent of your recovery and the time it takes for you to heal. Here’s a checklist of what to do in the moments, hours, days, and weeks after a crash.
While You Are Still on the Scene
Do a quick assessment of your injuries. Wiggle your toes and fingers. See if you can move your arms and legs, but don’t try to stand up right away. If you have any injuries to your head, neck, or back, stay where you are, provided you can do so safely, until emergency personnel arrive. They’ll know exactly what to do, so defer to their knowledge and expertise.
Make certain you tell paramedics about anything that seems out of the ordinary. Don’t focus on a broken leg and neglect to tell them about the tingling in your arms or legs. Be willing to travel to the hospital in an ambulance, if necessary.
In the Next Few Hours
Even if you are able to walk away from the accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many serious conditions, including whiplash, can take hours or days to start presenting symptoms. You can go to an emergency room or urgent care facility, but your primary care physician may be the best place to go. They’ll know your medical history and be able to identify anything that seems different. They’ll have the tools and skills to conduct a thorough assessment and either prescribe a regimen of care or send you to a specialist, if necessary. They’ll also be able to prescribe medications for temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
Over the Next Few Weeks and Months
It’s a good idea to see your primary care physician on a regular basis, so they can monitor your progress and make modifications to your care, if necessary. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy or rehab. Be willing to go and work hard—it really helps.
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, with offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, we have extensive experience helping people who suffer any type of injury in a motor vehicle accident, from soft tissue trauma to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). We have the tools and resources to accurately assess your condition and either prescribe a regiment of treatment or refer you to a specialist, if necessary. Contact us online or call our offices at (819) 229-1941 to schedule an appointment.
