Welcome to Advance Physical Therapy!

logo

Motor Vehicle Accident Treatment and Recovery

An MVA motor vehicle accident is a collision that results in moderate to severe physical and psychological damage, including comorbidities, which cripples the functionality of victims leading to sudden helplessness. 

While Advance Physical Therapy works as MVA rehabilitation and understands how traumatic a motor vehicle accident can be and what the recovery plan should be. As an MVA rehabilitation services clinic we also know that victims often have clinically significant sequelae. And automobile collision can lead to spinal cord and traumatic brain injury, nerve and thoracic fractures, whiplash, concussions, spinal disc herniation, soft tissue injuries, limb loss and knee injuries, facial trauma, body sprains and spasms, and burns. 

So, what treatment should you expect after an MVA injury?

If you’ve been in a crash, you know the most common damage is the upper spine and neck, besides traumatic brain injury, soft tissue injury, concussions, lacerations, and fractures. And sometimes the impacts of substantive crashes may recur over 6-18 months. 

Hence, expert therapists at our clinics will examine the injuries and develop a personal treatment plan, which might include a referral to an expert specialist to help you work on an all-inclusive convalescence plan after a motor vehicle accident. 

The All-inclusive Treatment After Motor Vehicle Injuries:

Comprehensive Evaluation

Your auto accident injury treatment will begin with a thorough assessment by our licensed physical therapist to identify injuries and functional limitations, forming the foundation for a personalized treatment plan.

Customized Treatment Plan

Based on the evaluation, the therapist will develop a treatment plan that may include:

  •  Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to mobilize joints and soft tissues, reducing pain and improving mobility such as:

Targeted movements: A biomechanics-based training that helps victims learn motor control of functional movements.

Graston Therapy 

Soft tissue work that will signal and accelerate the blood flow to promote healing.

  • Modalities

Using ultrasound, heat, or ice can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Other treatment methods include kinesiology taping and bracing, to provide support and stability. Moreover, electrical stimulation can help you manage pain and encourage muscle recovery. Shockwave therapy is another option that can stimulate healing in soft tissue injuries. Myofascial release is a technique used to relieve tension in the fascia and improve movement. 

Additionally, patient education and prevention strategies are crucial to ensure proper body mechanics and reduce re-injury risk.

Your therapist will guide you on proper body mechanics and ergonomics to prevent re-injury and promote long-term health.

Progressive Rehab

As you advance, the focus will shift to functional training, simulating daily activities to ensure a safe return to your routine after the catastrophic injury.

Starting physical therapy quickly after a car accident, often the same week, is crucial unless the medical clearance is required . Early intervention helps prevent acute injuries from becoming chronic conditions, accelerates healing, and optimizes recovery outcomes. Don’t delay seeking evaluation if you’re experiencing pain or stiffness post-MVA.

Physical therapy effectively treats a wide range of common car accident injuries, including whiplash, neck pain, back pain, headaches, shoulder injuries, knee sprains, and soft tissue damage. Our therapists specialize in rehabilitating these specific conditions to restore function and reduce discomfort.

No, you are not required to have a referral to see a physical therapist. In case you need consultation with an MD, our office will arrange that for you

A typical session for car accident injuries includes a personalized blend of manual therapy (hands-on techniques for pain relief and mobility), therapeutic exercises (strengthening, stretching, and range of motion), and modalities (like heat/cold therapy or electrical stimulation) to reduce inflammation and pain. Education on posture and body mechanics is also key.

The duration of physical therapy post-car accident varies significantly based on injury severity and individual progress. It can range from a few weeks for minor sprains to several months for more complex injuries. Your physical therapist will regularly assess your recovery and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

While some mild discomfort or muscle soreness can be part of the healing process as you regain strength and mobility, physical therapy should not cause severe or intolerable pain. Your therapist will work within your pain tolerance, gradually progressing exercises to ensure effective and comfortable rehabilitation.

In most cases, physical therapy for motor vehicle accident-related injuries is covered by your auto insurance policy (often through Personal Injury Protection – PIP) or the policy of party at fault. In case the insurance of the party at fault does not accept the responsibility, our team will assist you in filing the claim.

Absolutely. Physical therapy can be highly effective in managing and reducing chronic pain stemming from past car accidents. Even years later, specialized programs focusing on strengthening, flexibility, posture correction, and pain education can significantly improve your quality of life and functional abilities.

For your first MVA physical therapy appointment, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Bring any relevant medical records, imaging reports (X-rays, MRI), a list of current medications, and your insurance information. Be prepared to discuss your accident details, symptoms, and medical history thoroughly.

Your active participation is paramount to a successful physical therapy recovery after an MVA. Consistently attending appointments, diligently performing prescribed home exercises, adhering to your therapist’s guidance, and openly communicating your progress and concerns are vital for achieving the best possible long-term outcomes.

Talk to a Therapist

( Request a Free Phone Consultation with the Therapist)

Get an Appointment

How Physical Therapy Can Help You Relieve Low Back Pain Therapy Houston
Back Pain

How Physical Therapy Can Help You Relieve Low Back Pain Therapy Houston

Physical Therapy can help! Physical Therapy is a type of treatment that uses exercise, massage, and other techniques to help...
Read More
Neck Pain Physical Therapy Treatment in Houston
Neck Pain

Neck Pain Physical Therapy Treatment in Houston

Neck pain can be a persistent and debilitating condition affecting your daily life. Whether it’s caused by poor posture, an...
Read More
Shoulder Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Shoulder pain is a common complaint that can significantly affect an individual's daily activities and quality of life. Various factors...
Read More
Why Early Physical Therapy Intervention is Key to Whiplash Recovery
Accident Injuries Headaches Neck Pain

Why Early Physical Therapy Intervention is Key to Whiplash Recovery

The most usual application of early physical therapy is whiplash treatment. There may be a feeling of ache and pain...
Read More
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): A Common Overuse Injury
Accident Injuries

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): A Common Overuse Injury

ITBS, commonly referred to as "runner's knee," is a prevalent overuse injury affecting athletes, particularly runners and cyclists (Taunton et...
Read More
Back in Action: Treating And Preventing Back Pain By Physiotherapy
Back Pain

Back in Action: Treating And Preventing Back Pain By Physiotherapy

Houston Back Pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's due to a...
Read More
5 Best Exercises To Treat Whiplash At Home
Accident Injuries Headaches Neck Pain

5 Best Exercises To Treat Whiplash At Home

What is the fastest and easiest cure for whiplash ?The internet is rife with articles suggesting that Whiplash Associated Disorders...
Read More
Why Isn’t MRI Always the Solution for Diagnosing Whiplash Pain?
Accident Injuries Back Pain Neck Pain

Why Isn’t MRI Always the Solution for Diagnosing Whiplash Pain?

If you have neck pain after a car accident, you may wonder if an MRI is necessary to diagnose it....
Read More
Whiplash Mystery: Unmasking Shoulder Involvement
Accident Injuries Back Pain Shoulder Pain

Whiplash Mystery: Unmasking Shoulder Involvement

Have you been experiencing an increase in neck pain after lifting or carrying light weights?Thinking of returning to lifting after...
Read More
Whiplash V. Whiplash Associated Disorder
Accident Injuries Headaches Neck Pain

Whiplash V. Whiplash Associated Disorder

The term soon began to be utilized as a condition rather than the force itself. The term Whiplash Associated Disorder...
Read More
How does physical therapy help with neck pain after an accident?
Accident Injuries Back Pain Neck Pain

How does physical therapy help with neck pain after an accident?

Injuries to the neck region (cervical spine) have been deeply studied for several decades by many researchers in healthcare. Pain...
Read More

Go to Top
Book Appointment