Being in a car accident can easily lead to injuries. These might feel mild at first, but they can sometimes worsen over time. Never ignore the signs of something wrong—this can lead to lasting problems that ripple throughout your life.
You should see a physiotherapist as soon as possible after a car accident. Early care helps identify injuries and lets you begin treatment quickly—before you experience significant side effects. It also helps you meet necessary insurance requirements to avoid unwanted financial burdens in the future.
Common Problems After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Motor vehicle accidents can cause a range of injuries. Some are mild while others are severe. These are some of the most common issues people experience after an accident:
- Whiplash, often leading to neck stiffness or soreness.
- Back or shoulder pain, either immediate or delayed.
- Discomfort in muscles or joints caused by tension or strain.
- Difficulty moving or turning due to reduced flexibility.
- Hidden injuries, such as concussions, that may not show symptoms right away.
- Anxiety and stress / fears
These issues may develop over days or weeks. Addressing them early helps prevent long-term problems and promotes effective healing.
What To Do After a Car Accident
After a motor vehicle accident (MVA), your actions directly impact your recovery and insurance claims process. Following these steps is key:
- Immediately verify you’re okay.
- Report the accident to the necessary authorities and your insurance provider as soon as you can.
- Book an appointment with a physiotherapist as soon as you can.
During this visit, they’ll assess your injuries and work with you to complete the AB1 and the AB2 forms needed to activate your MVA claim. Then, you’ll be able to learn what treatments you’re entitled to under DTPR or Section B coverage.
These may include but are not limited to:
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic treatment
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Kinesiology
- Psychological support
Taking these steps early is absolutely essential. It gives you the best chance to heal and makes these treatments much more accessible under your coverage.
Assessment for Physiotherapy
An initial physiotherapy assessment should be one of your top priorities. These aren’t just about getting checked for damage—they let an experienced professional assess your full range of motion and look for potential problems that may not otherwise show themselves.
During this session, a physiotherapist will evaluate your overall condition and identify any injuries you may have. They’ll assess:
- Your pain levels
- Areas of concern
- Restricted motions and movement
- How these issues affect your everyday life
This helps pinpoint injuries even if symptoms aren’t severe yet. This also lets them create a custom treatment plan to reduce the risk of lasting damage from your MVA.
The Alberta Diagnostic Treatment Protocol (DTPR)
After the assessment, your claim will be assessed to determine if it’s within the range of the Alberta Diagnostic Treatment Protocols. This is a guide used by insurance companies to determine appropriate treatments for each injury.
Coverage by DTPR
If your case is covered by DTPR:
- Your therapist will determine how many treatments you’ll receive (typically between 10-21).
- Your insurer will be billed directly for all your treatments.
Authorization for DTPR expires 90 days after the accident, If further treatments are required, you may be eligible for continued care under the Alberta Automobile Accident Insurance Benefits Regulation (AAIB).
If you’re covered by DTPR, you’ll qualify for treatments including:
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
Lack of Coverage by DTPR
If you are not covered by DTPR:
- You will be responsible for covering the cost of your treatments.
- Your therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan that suits your needs.
- You may still be eligible for reimbursement from your insurance company, depending on your policy.
You’ll need to contact your insurer directly to discuss your options and clarify any details. The number of treatments will depend on your unique circumstances.
Treatment & Reassessment
As your treatment progresses, reassessment plays an essential role. Follow-up appointments are key to recovery. Your physiotherapist will need to monitor your progression through treatment, and then make necessary adjustments to your care plan if needed.
This early intervention contributes to long-term results. These are a valuable way to check how well your therapy is working. If any challenges arise, your physiotherapist will provide additional support as needed.
Let Our Team Help
Getting a professional opinion is one of the best ways to make sure you get the support you deserve. Motor vehicle accidents can be complicated affairs, so don’t make it harder for yourself—our team can guide you through the recovery process.
If you or someone you know has recently been in an accident, contact our team at Running Shoe Restorative Healthcare. It’s the key to addressing problems before they worsen, and we’re here to help. Your recovery is our top priority, so book your consultation appointment today!
