Our patients often ask us what are the most common injuries in Florida that we see, and while the answer is a bit complex there are a few identifiable commonalities. There are so many different ways people end up getting hurt; it all largely depends on what you are doing at the time of injury. Due to Florida’s nice weather and local access to beaches and wetlands many injuries are related to sports and water related accidents. Car accidents, job site accidents, and slip and fall accidents are other leading causes of injury in Florida.
Sports Injuries
We see injured athletes young and old on a regular basis. The most common sports related injuries that we see include:
- A sprained ankle
- Hamstring strain
- Pulled groin
- Shin splints
- ACL tear, or knee injury
- Patellofemoral syndrome, knee injury (caused by a repetitive movement where your kneecap pushes against your thigh bone)
- Tennis elbow (also known as epicondylitis) (Reference)
Slip & Fall Accidents
Florida has a large elderly population, which contributes to the increased percentage of slip and fall accidents. These accidents often occur on public or
private property where conditions are not adequately maintained for safety. It’s not just the elderly that fall; anyone can easily lose their footing given the right circumstances.
Boating & Water Related Accidents
Florida is a beachside state where many people enjoy boating, hanging out in the water, fishing and participating in water sports. Due to all of the lakes, swamps and ocean environments found throughout our State it’s no surprise that many of Florida’s injuries occur on or near the water.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as many as
48% of these accidents are caused by careless actions or violations of navigation rules. In other words, by simply exercising caution and following the rules you can
greatly reduce your risk for injury while enjoying all that Florida’s wetlands, lakes and beaches have to offer. (Reference)
Car Accidents in Florida
Car accidents are one of the most common ways Florida residents become injured. In 2012, the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles reported more than 280,000 car accidents across the State. It’s not just drivers that are injured in automobile related incidents; cyclists and pedestrians are often victims in these accidents too.
The top five most common injuries caused by car accidents include:
Neck injuries: many rear end accidents that appear pretty harmless, besides a dent in your vehicle, lead to minor or major neck injuries. Whiplash is often to blame when you are hit from behind, as your body is thrust forward and your head is whipped back. You may not have any pain immediately following a car accident because of the adrenaline rushing through your body, but it is very common to notice neck pain the following day, or even a couple days after. Signs of whiplash include low back pain, nausea, blurred vision, headaches, and shoulder pain.
Spine and back damage: Even if you are wearing your seatbelt during an accident there is always the risk for back or spinal injuries. The most serious back injuries relate to the spinal cord. In most cases if your spine is injured you will be taken to the ER immediately, as this can cause life long debilitating issues. The result of spinal damage can lead to chronic pain, loss of balance, restricted mobility and numbness.
Neurological Trauma: Traumatic Bran Injury (TBI) is just one form of neurological damage that can be caused by a serious car accident. The symptoms include chronic pain, memory loss, and a loss of reasoning and cognitive skills. Neurological damage is slow to heal and can be life threatening.
Psychological Problems: If you are involved in a serious accident that causes loss of life or other life altering consequences it is perfectly normal to experience PTSS, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Flashbacks, reoccurring dreams, heightened anxiety and development of a temperament or unpredictable mood swings are all possible side effects.
Disfigurement: Burns, lacerations and other serious physical trauma are rare but can occur if the car accident is serious enough. (Reference)
For minor auto accident injuries visit Urgent Medical Center for compassionate care. For more serious auto accidents you will likely be taken to the Emergency Room by medical personal called on site to the accident
We Treat All Minor To Moderate Injuries In Florida
Urgent Medical Center is the leading source for fast medical attention in Plantation, Florida.If you experience any mild to moderate injuries we are here to help you begin the healing process right away.
If your injury requires further treatment we offer specialty referrals in order to get you the best care possible for a speedy recover. We also coordinate with primary care physicians so that your medical record remains complete at all times.
