Physical therapy after a car accident — how long should you go?

If you’ve been in a car accident, it is critical to seek immediate treatment, even if you don’t feel any initial pain. In many cases, symptoms from auto-related injuries can have a gradual onset; being preemptive about your care can give you the best chance of lessening their severity. A qualified medical professional can perform a thorough examination, determine the extent of injuries and recommend appropriate treatment. 

Physical therapy after a car accident is commonly recommended and can be effective for a wide range of injuries, including whiplash and concussions. Many people beginning a therapy program are curious about how long they go to their sessions after a car accident. There is not a single answer for this as the length of the program is highly dependent on a number of case-by-case factors.

Factors determining the length of post-accident physical therapy

The first step in any physical therapy program is an assessment with your therapist. This helps establish a baseline for functioning, range of motion and pain levels while also offering a better understanding of the accident and resulting injury. With this information, your therapist can develop a treatment program designed to address symptoms, improve mobility and promote the long-term recovery process. 

The recommended frequency of sessions and length of the program can depend on factors including the following:

• Severity of the injury
• Location of the injury 
• Patient’s current state of health
• Patient’s treatment goals 
• Rate of progress

Every person is different, has different injuries and heals at a different rate. This is why physical therapy programs can last anywhere from weeks to months to years. To give yourself the best chance of achieving long-term wellness, it’s important to work closely with your therapist and be persistent about your treatment. 

Personalized therapy programs with Back in Motion 

The highly skilled and compassionate therapists at Back in Motion have extensive experience working with patients in the recovery process for car accidents. We’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is the right length for your injury, lifestyle and recovery goals. Our therapists know that communication is one of the cornerstones of recovery and make a focused effort to help you feel in the loop regarding your care. 

To schedule your initial appointment and start your treatment journey, contact us today.