MVA Injury Recovery: Regaining functionality and well-being after an accident | 3 min read

Introduction

Recovering from a motor vehicle accident (MVA) can be a challenging physical and emotional journey. Many patients feel anxious about therapy, fearing it may worsen their pain or cause injury. While undergoing physical therapy, your safety and comfort is prioritised, ensuring each step forward is taken with care and expertise.

Addressing fear of therapy

Fear is natural after trauma. You might worry that exercises will worsen your pain or trigger re-injury. The therapist begins by listening and understanding your symptoms, fears and goals. It will be explained that recovery is not about pushing beyond limits, but about rebuilding strength safely and gradually. 

Personalised treatment plans

Your journey is unique. Every rehabilitation plan is tailored to your situation, whether you’re dealing with neck, shoulder or back pain. The early stages focus on gentle techniques, such as manual therapy and light stretching, to reduce pain and restore movement. As confidence builds, progressive exercises are introduced to help regain function. 

Managing setbacks

Recovery is rarely linear on days when pain flares or progress stalls, your therapist will pause, reassess and adjust. Setbacks aren’t failures; they’re opportunities for insight. At Intercare, every small victory is celebrated, helping you stay motivated and hopeful.

Restoring functionality

With time, your range of motion improves, pain diminishes, and you return to everyday activities. We incorporate functional exercises, ranging from simple tasks like reaching and bending to more active movements relevant to your lifestyle, thereby regaining both physical ability and self-confidence. 

Whole-Person support

Our care isn’t solely physical. From initial welcome to ongoing sessions, you’ll find encouragement, reassurance, and emotional guidance. We address both your body and your mindset, aiming not only for physical restoration but also for a renewed sense of well-being. 

Why choose Intercare Physical Rehabilitation hospitals

Intercare’s Physical rehabilitation hospitals are designed to help patients recover from injuries sustained in severe motor vehicle accidents, among other conditions, by providing specialised care to restore mobility and quality of life. 

Intercare’s rehabilitation programs focus on:

  • Physical rehabilitation:

This includes regaining strength, mobility, and function after injuries. 

  • Neurological rehabilitation:

For those who have experienced head or spinal injuries, Intercare offers specialised programs. 

  • Orthopaedic rehabilitation:

This focuses on recovery from fractures, joint replacements, and other musculoskeletal injuries common in MVAs. 

  • Pain management:

Intercare also provides pain management strategies to help patients cope with pain and discomfort following an accident. 

  • Psychological support:

Intercare recognises the psychological impact of MVAs and can provide support to help patients cope with emotional trauma. 

Intercare aims to help patients regain independence and functionality after a MVA through a multidisciplinary approach involving medical professionals, therapists, and other healthcare specialists. 

Why expertise matters

Our team is skilled in a wide range of therapeutic techniques. Whether you’re preparing for work, sports, or daily life, we’ll equip you with strategies that reduce pain, avoid re-injury, and support long-term health. 

Take the next step

If you’re dealing with pain or fear after an MVA, know that recovery is possible. Professional guidance helps you rebuild safely, steadily and confidently. At Intercare, our team is here to help you reclaim your movement, your daily routine, and your peace of mind.

Recovery after an MVA isn’t just about healing the body; it’s about restoring your quality of life. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact an Intercare Physical Rehabilitation hospital near you.

Intercare Hazeldean Physical Rehabilitation Hospital

Intercare Irene Physical Rehabilitation Hospital 

Intercare Newlands Physical Rehabilitation Hospital 

Intercare Sandton Physical Rehabilitation Hospital 

Intercare Tyger Valley Physical Rehabilitation Hospital 

Reviewed: June 2025

Obtain more information regarding physical rehabilitation, trauma, and steps to recovery by clicking here: 

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