The condition: Injuries from a motor vehicle accident

49-year-old female was involved in a motor vehicle collision on May 6, 2023. The patient stated she was the restrained driver of a motor vehicle traveling on a main road when another vehicle suddenly made a left-hand turn colliding with the patient's front driver side. Patient stated she experienced immediate neck pain and pain in the lower back. She was transported by rescue taken to a local hospital where she underwent x-rays and was prescribed medications and released. She then began physical therapy which she continued for about three and was released with residual complaints. Additionally, the patient was evaluated by an orthopedist and declined steroid injections.

The initial presentation:
When she presented to Estner Injury Centers 6 months after the accident, she was experiencing persistent neck pain that radiated to the shoulders and pain down her entire spine. She had lower lumbar pain with radiation to the right lower extremity. When she stood erect, the pain throughout her spine increased to a point where she starts to lean forward and is unable to straighten up; this was her most concerning complaint. She was unable to function normally, conducting most daily tasks without some degree of assistance wither with a cane or person. 

Exam findings and Diagnoses:

The mid to lower spinal muscles were exceptionally weak and the core muscles were contracted. Her neck range of motion was limited due to muscle tightness and joint fixation. Her right SI joint was rotated resulting in a short leg and spinal tilt. 

The Treatment:

The goal was to be able to relax the core muscles by electric stimulation superficial and trigger point/myofascial a bit deeper. Strengthening to the spinal muscles was conducted using Russian Stimulation. Exercises with electric impulse performed surging the muscles and gaining immediate strength. After two weeks manipulation began, and the spine started to establish proper alignment and indicated postural improvements. The patient wore a lumbar support for 4-6 hours per day. Therapy continued for nearly 4 months. Her headaches full resolved, neck range of motion and cervical curve restored to normal. Lower back pain fully resolved. There was still some mild sciatic discomfort and occasional issues with maintaining an erect posture, mainly when on feet for longer than 6 hours at a time.