If you’re struggling with pain or limited mobility after a car accident, recognizing the signs you need physical therapy after an accident can be the first step toward recovery.
A physical therapist can help you recover safely and prevent long-term issues. In this article, we’ll cover some key tests to know if you should seek physical therapy, but as always, we recommend you consult with your doctor.
Signs you need physical therapy after an accident
Persistent pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility in your neck, back, or joints are key signs you need physical therapy after a car accident. You may also notice difficulty performing daily tasks, frequent headaches, or muscle weakness, indicating the need for professional rehabilitation.
At-home tests to know if you need physical therapy
Though getting an evaluation is likely the most straightforward way to know if you can benefit from physical therapy, here are some basic tests that we often give patients. You can perform these from the comfort of your own home:
1. Range of motion test
A reduced range of motion is a very common sign that you can benefit from physical therapy. Very gently, try moving your neck, shoulders, or back in all directions.
If you experience pain, stiffness, or can’t move as freely as before the accident, these are signs you need physical therapy treatment after a car accident to restore mobility and improve function.
2. Strength and grip test
Squeeze your hand or lift a light object. If you notice weakness or discomfort in your hands, arms, or legs, this may suggest muscle or nerve issues that we can address in physical therapy sessions.
3. Balance and coordination check
Not all physical injuries manifest as pain. Stand on one leg or walk in a straight line. Difficulty maintaining balance or coordination post-accident indicates potential issues that a physical therapist can evaluate and treat.
4. Functional movement test
This test is a little more general, though we advise you do it anyway. As you go through your daily life in the days following your accident, assess your ability to do everyday tasks like getting up from a chair, walking upstairs, or carrying groceries. Discomfort or difficulty could indicate the need for therapy.
We want to stress this highly: these tests are not a substitute for a medical diagnosis, but they can highlight symptoms requiring professional attention. If you notice weakness, pain, or stiffness during any of these tests, consult a physical therapist to develop a tailored recovery plan.
Doing so early in the process can help provide you with much-needed pain relief before issues become chronic, preventing long-term damage and even helping to avoid surgery in some cases.
Not all accidents require therapy (how to know)
Not every car accident requires that you receive physical therapy, which is why we suggest the tests above. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, limited movement, or difficulty with daily activities like driving or lifting, these are clear signs you need physical therapy after an accident.
Note that not all physical injuries may manifest immediately after an accident. Even minor accidents can cause whiplash, soft tissue injuries, joint problems, or quality of life issues that can worsen without treatment.
A physical therapist will assess your condition, often using tests like those above, to determine if therapy is necessary. When in doubt, a professional evaluation can clarify whether physical therapy is the right choice for your recovery.
How long is physical therapy needed after a car accident?
The duration of physical therapy after a car accident varies depending on the severity of your injuries and your body’s response to treatment. For minor injuries like mild whiplash, you might need 4–8 weeks of therapy, with 1–2 sessions per week.
More severe injuries, such as fractures or herniated discs, may require 3–6 months or longer. Your physical therapist will create a personalized plan, adjusting the frequency and duration based on your progress.
As we’ve noted in our articles on how physical therapy works, one of the key ingredients in getting better more quickly is consistency. Attending sessions and following your home exercise program can dramatically reduce recovery time.
If you do have an evaluation, discuss you timeline with your therapist to set realistic expectations on the front end.
Next steps towards recovery
Ignoring the signs you need physical therapy after a car accident can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even permanent damage. Physical therapy not only addresses immediate symptoms but also prevents complications like scar tissue buildup or joint stiffness.
By starting therapy early, you improve your chances of a full recovery, allowing you to return to work, hobbies, and daily life without limitations. If you’re unsure, a quick consultation with a physical therapist can confirm whether therapy is necessary and outline the benefits for your specific case.
We encourage all of our patients not to wait for symptoms to worsen—schedule a consultation with your doctor or a licensed physical therapist to discuss your needs. With the right care, you can regain your strength, reduce pain, and get back to living life fully.
