Auto Injuries Q & A
What Injuries are Often Associated with Auto Accidents?
Auto accidents can cause a wide variety of injuries. The most common are often whiplash, blunt force trauma to the head, and various types of internal injuries. Whiplash results in the stretching and tearing of the connective tissues in the neck. Blunt force trauma is any intense bruising from the body being impacted by a portion of the vehicle, including the steering wheel, dashboard, or doors. Internal injuries are often caused by the body being thrown into the dash, doors, or steering wheel. Even if a person is wearing a seat belt, the risk of internal injuries is extremely high. Broken ribs and internal bleeding are commonly reported injuries.
Can Auto Related Injuries be Prevented?
The only way to truly prevent auto-related injuries is to prevent auto accidents. Because an accident can occur at any time, it is important to protect yourself as much as possible. Wearing a seat belt at all times is of vital importance. Be mindful of the environment and know what is going on around the vehicle at all times. It is also important to keep the vehicle in good working order. In many cases, people claim that accidents are the result of being frustrated or stressed. Regular chiropractic adjustments help to relieve stress and will actually help a person remain more focused and alert.
Why Does it Take so Long for the Symptoms of Auto Related Injuries to Appear?
It can take up to 24 hours or longer for a person to begin to feel the repercussions of the injuries they received in an auto accident. Part of the reason for this is the massive release of adrenaline that occurs after an accident. Adrenaline is what kicks the body into high gear during a fight or flight situation. It gives the body the immediate use of extra energy that may be needed to help get out of a bad situation. The entire body becomes a constant chemical reaction that is designed to provide the resources needed to get out of the way of danger. After an accident, it can take several hours or even a day or two for the adrenaline to dissipate. Once it does and the body begins to relax, it will begin to feel the pain associated with a person’s injuries.