Accidents

Accidents like car crashes or slip and falls often cause musculoskeletal injuries. If you experience pain, stiffness, or mobility issues after an accident, seek treatment immediately. At Delaware Physiatry in Dover, Wilmington and Newark, Delaware, Haresh Sampathkumar, MD, and the interdisciplinary team specialize in diagnosing and treating a multitude of accident-related injuries. Call Delaware Physiatry today to request an appointment, or book online.

What are accidents?

Accidents are unfortunate events that occur unexpectedly. The Delaware Physiatry team specializes in diagnosing and treating physical and neurological accident injuries.

If you or a loved one experience an accident while driving, working, or doing other routine activities, don’t wait to get checked out. Early intervention can keep your symptoms from worsening and speed up your natural healing process.

What are some common accident injuries?

The Delaware Physiatry team diagnoses and treats various accident injuries, including:

• Fractures
• Sprains and strains
• Dislocated joints
• Concussions
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Muscle spasms
• Swelling and inflammation
• Stiffness
• Whiplash
• Wrist and hand injuries

You may benefit from treatment if you have an accident at work, like falling off a ladder.

Should I see a doctor after an accident?

Yes. If you’re involved in an accident of any kind, make an appointment at Delaware Physiatry within 72 hours.

It’s important to get checked out, even if you don’t think your injury is serious. Many musculoskeletal injuries, like whiplash, take several days to present obvious symptoms. Getting screened early on can reduce your risk of future complications.

How are accident-related injuries diagnosed?

Your Delaware Physiatry provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. They check your skin, looking for redness, swelling, or bruising, and gently press on and around the injured area to identify sensitive places. 

Next, they assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and range of motion and order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, CT scans, or an MRI.

After making a diagnosis, your provider develops a personalized treatment plan.

How are accident-related injuries treated?

The Delaware Physiatry team treats accident-related injuries using a conservative and integrated approach. They may recommend:

• Chiropractic care
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy
• Activity modification
• Prescription pain medication
• Healthy lifestyle changes, like exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight
• A cast, splint, or a walking boot
• Rest
• Ice and heat therapy

The various specialists work together to treat even the most complex injuries, reducing the risk of complications.

Is there any way to prevent accidents?

There’s no way to prevent accidents entirely, but you can reduce your risk by taking certain safety precautions. 

The Delaware Physiatry team recommends always warming up before exercise, wearing a seatbelt whenever you’re in the car, and following all of the recommended safety instructions when using power equipment or hand tools. 

Call Delaware Physiatry today to receive treatment for an accident-related injury or make your appointment online.