Common Injuries After a Car Accident in Pittsburgh
The sudden forces involved in a car accident — even at low speeds — can cause significant musculoskeletal trauma. Common injuries we treat include:
- Whiplash — neck sprain/strain from rapid acceleration-deceleration, the most common car accident injury
- Cervical disc injuries — herniated or bulging discs in the neck from impact forces
- Lumbar injuries — lower back strain, disc injury, or facet joint injury from the impact
- Shoulder injuries — rotator cuff strains and AC joint injuries from bracing against the impact
- Thoracic spine injuries — mid-back pain and rib injuries from seatbelt restraint
- Headaches — cervicogenic headaches that develop in the days after the accident
- Soft tissue contusions — bruising and muscle damage from seatbelt and airbag contact
Why You Should Get Evaluated Immediately After a Car Accident
The adrenaline rush following a car accident can mask pain — leading many people to believe they're fine immediately after the crash. But soft tissue injuries, disc injuries, and nerve damage often don't manifest fully until 24–72 hours post-accident. Getting evaluated promptly:
- Identifies injuries before they worsen
- Establishes a medical record connecting your injuries to the accident
- Allows treatment to begin while your body is still in the acute inflammatory phase — when intervention is most effective
- Protects your personal injury claim if you need to pursue one
Auto Insurance Coverage for Car Accident Treatment in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Physical Medicine accepts auto insurance directly for car accident injury treatment. Most Pennsylvania auto insurance policies include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage that pays for chiropractic care and physical therapy after an accident — regardless of fault. We work with personal injury attorneys if needed and provide thorough clinical documentation for any claim. Call (412) 404-8337 for a same-week appointment.