imponderables

Comments

Life is chock full of imponderables.  Why do we sing take me out to the ball game when we are already there?  Why do we say, “Heads-up!” when we actually mean, “Duck”?  Is deceased stoner-rocker Jerry Garcia really grateful to be dead?  Why do we call running backs “running backs” when their job is to run forward?  Why do motor vehicle accidents (MVA’s) happen even when people drive slower?

NO EASY ANSWERS

Unfortunately, just as there are no easy answers to the imponderables, there are no easy answers as to why so many fender-bender and rear-end collisions take place.  Bad weather, poor driving habits, booze, and speed all can play a role.  Unfortunately, even if you are a careful driver and have never gotten a photo radar love note, the loser who was yapping on his cell phone while trying to chomp his Whopper and puff his cigarillo at the same time just as the light was changing will still slam his brakes too late and biff your bumper.  And you and your neck, and your back and your shoulders may end up getting biffed as well.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

What should I do following an MVA?  Here are some “SHEER” suggestions:

* STAY:  calm and, if you are really beat up, stay put & wait until an ambulance comes

* HELP:  others if you are not seriously whacked and it is safe to get out of your vehicle

* EXCHANGE:  insurance and personal contact information with the other driver.

* EXAMINE: your vehicle for damage & get any witness contact information

* REPORT:  the accident to the boys in blue at the closest station

CAN PHYSIO HELP ME?

Absolutely.  Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to conduct thorough examinations to identify how bad your injuries are.  Excluding broken bones and major trauma, they can figure out how bad your injuries are and whether or not you have any resulting neurological problems.  In addition, they can customize a treatment plan to reduce your pain and headaches, improve your flexibility, and help you get your life back. 

WHO’S GOING TO PAY?

Under the brand-spanking new Alberta auto-insurance regulations, it depends.  If you injuries are minor, and you wish to access the “direct-bill” rehab protocols (where your physio provider can direct bill your auto insurer), you may be eligible for up to and including twenty-one (21) visits over the first three months.  If your injuries are major (for example, you have a pinched-nerve in your neck), you are only eligible for approximately six (6) direct-billed physio sessions.  After that, you will have to pay for your physio first (just like seeing your dentist), and then get reimbursed from your auto insurer later.  Imponderably backwards?  Maybe.  But, whichever category you fit into, the non-imponderable is seeing your favorite physical therapist sooner rather than later.   And when you do, don’t tell him that he “works like a dog”, when everyone knows that all dogs do is sit around all day!

Brent Kassian, BScPT, MCPA, MCPTA Executive Director

Capilano Rehab Centre phone:  466-1104

hit their hip website @ www. caprehab.com