Neurology
Auto accidents are one of the fatal accidents in the world and can cause damage to our central nervous system. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an accident occurs every 60 seconds, which amounts to 5.25 million accidents every year.
More than 20 million Americans suffer from some type of neurological illness and disorders, increasing the demand for expert no-fault neurologists for quick diagnosis and speedy treatment plans to enable them to live a pain-free life.
No-Fault Doctors is a trusted resource to help you find board-certified Neurology and No-Fault Doctors in New York, and New Jersey. We have a comprehensive list of qualified neurology specialty physicians near you. Our neurology physicians have years of experience and are able to provide in-depth analysis, diagnosis, services, and treatment plans for neural pain, trauma, and neuromuscular disorders.
Who is a Neurologist?
A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing brain disorders. Neurologists focus on the human nervous system and ensure that in-depth diagnosis and treatment plans are provided for every illness relating to the human brain and the spinal cord.
The Relationship between Neurology and Auto Accidents
To understand the relationship between neurology and auto-accidents, it is essential to understand what happens during a car accident.
Though auto accidents vary depending on why and how it happens, the human body responds directly to its placement in the vehicle, seating, speed of the oncoming vehicle, speed of the impact object, seatbelt usage, impalement by a foreign object, and many more.
During auto accidents, the human body is jostled very quickly, which may cause trauma to the brain or spinal cord. The impact on the vehicle can cause the brain to hit the surrounding skull or cause the spinal cord to shift sharply.
It is crucial to know that not all brain or spinal injuries generate symptoms immediately after accidents occur. Since the human body responds differently for every person and general body pain or discomfort is expected after being in a car crash, some injuries can present symptoms after a few days when adrenaline and shock wear off.
When discomfort and symptoms begin to show, it is essential to visit a neurologist and mention the accident so that your Neurologist can attend to your unique needs.
What Neurological Conditions are Linked to Car Crashes?
While finding a Neurologist that accepts no-fault insurance in New York and New Jersey is essential, it is crucial to know some of the neurological conditions linked to car crashes.
The most common injuries related to car crashes, or auto accidents include;
Whiplash
Whiplash is caused when the head is whipped backward suddenly during an accident and forwards swiftly while the body remains stationed in one position because of the seat belt use. Though this happens mostly for rear-end accidents, the sudden movement can cause injury to the cervical bones, the vertebrae discs, muscles, ligaments, and nerves.
Concussion
Concussions happen when the brain is from one side of the brain to the other, either during a whiplash or hitting the head during the accident, leading to bleeding or swelling of the brain.
Disc Herniation
During a sudden stop in movement, the neck and brain aren’t the only parts of the body subjected to swift action. The speedy movement that shoves the entire body during whiplash and concussion can also cause any discs in the spinal cord to misalign.
Seat belt syndrome
When the body is shoved during an accident, the person in the car may be wearing a seatbelt, preventing them from being thrown around. Seatbelts can also cause an indentation that may press and crack ribs which can puncture an internal organ.
Our No-Fault neurologists are experts in diagnosing and treating all discomforts and illnesses relating to auto accidents and car crashes.
Neurologists in New York and New Jersey
Our No-Fault neurologists are dedicated to helping people by providing in-depth diagnoses, treatment plans, and neurological care that help you live a healthier and better life.
Our neurologists in NY and NJ that accept no-fault are experienced in diagnosing neurological disorders underlying any of the following symptoms;
- Stiffness
- Pain
- Discomfort
- Severe headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Memory loss
- Imbalance
- Numbness or tingling, and many more
No-Fault Doctors is a trusted resource to find car accident neurology specialists in New York and New Jersey. With locations in New York City (Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Staten Island), Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, and other counties we are able to set up an appointment with an experienced neurologist near you. Our medical providers accept no-fault insurance, PIP, workers’ compensation, and most major medical insurance carrier plans. Contact us today at (888) 970-5065 to schedule an appointment with a neurologist located near you.
Understanding the Role of a Neurologist After a Car Accident
If you’ve recently been involved in a crash, you could have delayed symptoms. When you see a neurologist after a car accident, you’ll gain the peace of mind of knowing you’re receiving the most comprehensive care possible.
According to TreatNow.org, 1.7 million Americans experience a traumatic brain injury every year, 14% of which occur from vehicle collisions. If you’re searching for “No-fault doctor near me,” you’re in luck. No-Fault Doctors and Clinics of New York and New Jersey provide access to a directory filled with the best doctors in the region.
When to See a Neurologist After a Car Accident
Do you know when to see a neurologist after a car accident? Even if you’ve already been to the emergency room and they’ve cleared you, remain vigilant about the most common symptoms you may develop after a car crash.
Pain Symptoms
Pain symptoms are one of the most common indications you’re developing neurological complications after an accident. According to L.A. Pain Clinic, inflammation lies at the source of all pain. Damage to your spinal cord can put pressure on your nerves, which manifests in various ways, including:
- Headaches
- Throbbing or stabbing sensations
- Tingling or numbness
- Stiffness
Sensory Issues
Because your nervous system is responsible for helping you process sensory information, you may have a neurological injury if you notice any of the following sensory issues:
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Changes in smell or taste
- Tinnitus or trouble hearing
Cognitive Deficits
If you hit your head or injure your brain, you may have trouble thinking at the same level you could before your accident. If you notice memory loss, an inability to concentrate, or mood swings, you may have a neurological injury and should seek medical care.
Other Neurological Issues
Other neurological symptoms can manifest in various ways. You should seek a neurologist after a car accident if you notice any of the following conditions:
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle weakness
- Paralysis
What Can a Post-Car Accident Neurologist Do for You?
A car accident neurologist can offer several services, depending on your needs.
Examine and Diagnosis
One study by the University of Groningen showed that 57% of people with a mild brain injury who showed no symptoms after two weeks, presented with more severe symptoms a year after the injury. When you prioritize seeing a neurologist after your car crash, the examination can help you prevent late-onset symptoms.
If you are having symptoms, the neurologist can perform several types of diagnostic tests to determine the origin of the problem and how best to treat it. Common diagnostic tests include:
- Imaging tests such as MRIs
- Blood or urine samples
- A lumbar puncture to test your spinal fluid
- An electroencephalograph, which measures your brain function
Pain Management
A study conducted at Université Gustave Eiffel showed that up to 45% of people who experience a car crash still experience moderate chronic pain two years after the incident. A neurologist can help you manage your pain both immediately after the crash and long-term using the following methods and more:
- At-home methods: Working with the rest of your healthcare team, your neurologist can help you develop treatment habits like resting, stretching and exercising, and applying cold and heat at the appropriate intervals.
- Medications: The neurologist may advise taking over-the-counter pain medications like NSAIDs. In more severe cases, they can prescribe prescription pain medications.
- Non-invasive procedures: When medications don’t work, the next step is non- or minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency rhizotomy, glycerol rhizotomy, and stereotactic radiation.
- Surgical interventions: As a last resort, a neurologist can offer surgical procedures for qualified candidates. These can include deep brain stimulation and more intense forms of rhizotomy.
Treatment Plans
Beyond pain management, a neurologist can develop treatment plans for conditions that develop due to your car crash. These may include a series of injections to reduce inflammation, repairing structural damage, and working with a physical therapist to strengthen your body. Treatment seeks to address the underlying cause of your neurological problems rather than just manage the symptoms.
Benefits of Post-Crash Neurological Treatment
What benefits do you receive from visiting your neurologist after your accident?
- Reduced pain: Because a neurologist can treat the conditions and symptoms that arise from a car crash, you’ll experience an overall reduction of your pain. The sooner you visit them, the better long-term results you’ll have.
- Fewer complications: When a neurologist examines you after an accident, you’ll likely have fewer long-term complications because they can address underlying causes before they grow more severe.
- Peace of mind: When you’re confident a qualified neurologist has examined and treated you, you’ll experience less stress and anxiety about your overall health.
Seek Out a Qualified Neurologist Today
When you seek a neurologist after a car accident, you’re giving yourself the best chance of recovering. When you’re seeking a neurologist specialist, peruse the directory at No-Fault Doctors and Clinics of New York and New Jersey to find the best option. We provide access to a wide variety of specialists throughout New York and New Jersey.
Doctors listed in our directory accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. To learn more, call (888) 970-5065.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have questions about the role of a neurologist in recovering from a car accident, read the following answers to the topic’s most common questions.
Can a Car Accident Cause Neurological Problems?
A car accident can cause neurological problems if you hit your head or injure your spine or neck.
What Things Does a Neurologist Check During an Exam?
Your neurologist will check the following during an exam:
- Cranial nerves
- Coordination
- Senses
- Cognitive abilities
- Nervous system
How Do I Know I Should See a Neurologist After a Car Accident?
You should see a neurologist after a car accident if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Cognitive issues like memory loss
- Losing consciousness
- Seizures
- Disturbances to your sight, taste, or smell
- A sensation of numbness or tingling
- Drooping eyes or mouth on one side of your face