Can Minor Auto Accidents Cause Lasting Injuries?

Just as "little things mean a lot," it is sometimes the minor bumps, bruises and scrapes that can cause the most damage. Or, to put it another way, "Yes, just because you walk away from a minor auto accident or sports injury doesn't necessarily mean that you didn't get hurt." Those bruises don't show up immediately either.

Get a Professional Opinion after a Minor Crash

There is a class of automobile accidents that causes problems known as Minor Impact Soft Tissue (MIST) Injuries, with symptoms that sometimes do not manifest for years following impact. They cause whiplash-type problems, or internal bruising and bleeding that is not visible on X-rays or in MRI scans. All too often, because vehicle damage can be minor with a low-speed crash, victims are not even seen by physicians.

It is this type of injury that should prompt people to schedule an appointment for chiropractic examination. The most common pain is felt in the neck, shoulders and back; headaches are common, but may not appear immediately. And radiating pain in the hips or legs can appear later due to compression of the spine and damage to the sciatic nerve. Certain sports injuries have the same effect. Know that any impact that stops the movement of a body in motion has the potential for spinal problems or internal bleeding.

It is significant and disturbing that people who suffer low-impact injuries but do not receive treatment continue to feel pain up to 15 years later. That pain sometimes becomes progressively worse. Unfortunately, chronic pain that has persisted for years may contribute to additional health problems, and it also is more difficult to alleviate.

The wise course of action following a low-impact accident is to insist on an examination. Our trained Sewell Chiropractor will conduct an initial assessment, which includes past medical history and a thorough examination. Even if continuing care or spinal manipulation is deemed unnecessary in your case, isn't it comforting to realize that a caring professional has prioritized your health and well-being? Call us to schedule your appointment.