Aligned Integrated Health
Common Car Accident Injuries
What a Collision Does to the Body
The most common car accident injuries are neck injuries like whiplash, back injuries, shoulder and chest strains from the seat belt, headaches, and other soft tissue injuries to the muscles and ligaments. Some are obvious at the scene, while others show up days later. At Aligned Integrated Health, we help people recover from these injuries as part of our personal injury care in Scottsdale.
This guide covers the types of car accident injuries we see most, how the type of crash changes the injuries, and when to get checked.
- Evaluation of the neck, back, shoulders and joints after any crash
- Careful records that document your injuries and progress
- Gentle, coordinated care in one Scottsdale clinic
The Injuries We See Most
Every collision is different, but the same injuries come up again and again. Knowing them helps you recognize what you are feeling and describe it clearly.
Key Features:
- Neck Injuries: Whiplash and neck sprains from rapid back and forth motion.
- Back Injuries: Strains, sprains and disc irritation in the mid and lower back.
- Seat Belt and Shoulder Injuries: Bruising and strain across the chest and shoulder where the belt held you.
Types of Car Accident Injuries
Here is a closer look at common injuries from a car accident and how they tend to present.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is the classic car accident injury, most often from rear end collisions. It can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches and pain that spreads into the shoulders. See our whiplash care page for more detail.
Back Injuries From a Car Accident
Back injuries from a car accident range from muscle strains and ligament sprains to irritation of a spinal disc. Pain may stay in the back or travel into the buttock or leg if a nerve is irritated. Our back pain care and herniated disc care pages explain more.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Muscles, tendons and ligaments throughout the body can be stretched or torn in a collision. These soft tissue injuries are the most common category of all, and the easiest to underestimate because they do not show on X-rays.
Rear End Collision Injuries and T-Boned Car Accident Injuries
Rear end collision injuries often involve the neck and upper back, since the head is thrown backward and then forward. In a side impact, sometimes called a t-boned car accident, the body moves sideways, which can strain the side of the neck, the shoulders, the ribs and the hips. The type of impact helps guide where Dr. Dan looks most closely during your exam.
Head Injuries and Other Emergencies
Head injuries, broken bones, chest or abdominal pain, and any loss of consciousness need emergency medical care first. Chiropractic care can be part of recovery afterward, once serious injuries have been ruled out or treated.
How We Help
Dr. Dan starts with a full history of the crash and a thorough exam. Care may include gentle Pro Adjuster adjustments, massage therapy and chiropractic with rehabilitation. If you have questions about how your care will be paid for, our guide to who pays for chiropractic care after a car accident walks through the usual options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common car accident injuries?
Whiplash and other neck injuries, back injuries, seat belt bruising and shoulder strains, headaches, and soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains.
Can a minor accident cause an injury?
Yes. Even low speed collisions can strain the neck and back, and symptoms may not appear until later.
Do different crashes cause different injuries?
Often, yes. Rear end collisions commonly affect the neck, while side impacts can strain the side of the neck, shoulders, ribs and hips.
Do you see car accident patients in Scottsdale?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (480) 661-1977.
Get Evaluated After a Car Accident in Scottsdale, AZ
Aligned Integrated Health is at 10752 North 89th Place, Suite C130 in Scottsdale. Dr. Daniel J. Gerwig, D.C. has been practicing since 2001 and sees patients here himself. Most insurances are accepted and walk-ins are welcome.
New Patient Special. Includes the consultation, exam, report of findings and X-rays. See the current offer. Not valid for use with federally sponsored programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.