http://www.chambersmedical.com/

Chambers Medical Group, 1802 E Busch Boulevard, Tampa, FL (2026)

03/17/2026

Airbag Injuries

Airbags save thousands of lives every year. They are one of the most important safety features in modern vehicles. However, airbags deploy with tremendous force and can cause injuries in certain situations. Dr. Deryk Harting of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor care providers in Florida, discusses airbag injuries.

Airbags are designed to deploy in a fraction of a second during a major accident. Sensors throughout the vehicle detect sudden deceleration or impact. When the system detects a crash, it sends a signal to the airbag control unit. The control unit initiates a chemical reaction inside the airbag inflator. This reaction quickly produces nitrogen gas which fills the airbag almost instantly. Most airbags inflate in about 20 to 30 milliseconds.

Once inflated, the airbag creates a cushion between the occupant and interior surfaces like the steering wheel, dashboard, or door panels. The airbag then immediately begins to deflate through small vents. This allows the driver or passenger to move forward and decelerate safely.

Airbags are designed to work together with seat belts. Without a seat belt, the occupant may be too close to the airbag during deployment and increase the risk of injury. While airbags reduce the risk of severe trauma, they can still cause injuries due to their speed and force. Here are some common injuries caused by airbags:

• Facial Injuries: Facial injuries are among the most common airbag-related injuries. These can include bruising, lacerations, nasal fractures, or dental trauma. Diagnosing these types of injuries usually requires a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment depends on the severity. Minor cuts may require stitches, while fractures may need surgical repair or stabilization.

• Eye Injuries: The force of an airbag can also injure the orbits or eyes. Particles released during deployment may irritate the eye. Blunt force trauma may cause corneal abrasions, retinal damage, or orbital fractures. Medical providers typically diagnose eye injuries using specialized eye exams, equipment, and imaging. Treatment may include medicated eye drops, protective patches, or surgical procedures in severe cases. Eye injuries often require immediate medical attention to prevent long-term vision problems or even blindness.

• Upper Extremity Injuries: Drivers frequently sustain injuries to the hands, wrists, or forearms. This occurs because the hands are usually on the steering wheel when the airbag deploys. These injuries are diagnosed with physical examination, X-rays, or MRI scans to evaluate fractures, lacerations, and ligament damage. Treatment can range from splints and physical therapy to surgery in more serious cases.

• Chest and Rib Injuries: Airbags can also cause blunt force trauma to the chest. This may result in bruising, sprains, fractures, or inflammation of the chest wall. Medical providers usually diagnose these injuries with physical exams and imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans. Treatment often includes pain management, physical therapy, and breathing exercises. Severe rib fractures and other complications such as a punctured lung (pneumothorax) require additional medical intervention.

• Burns and Skin Abrasions: Airbags release heat and small amounts of chemical byproducts. Both can cause friction burns or chemical irritation on the skin, especially on the arms, face, or chest. Treatment may include wound cleaning, topical medications, and protective dressings. In most cases these burns are superficial and heal within a few days to weeks with consistent wound care but can become significant if the wound becomes infected.

Airbags are crucial safety devices and significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries in car accidents. However, their rapid deployment can still cause certain types of trauma. Anyone involved in a car accident should seek medical attention, even if their injuries seem mild.

-- This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

03/16/2026

Hydration Still Matters in Cold Weather

Many people feel less thirsty in winter, but dehydration still affects energy, digestion, and joint comfort. Heated indoor air can dry you out faster than you realize.

Warm beverages like herbal tea or broth count toward hydration. Aim to sip consistently throughout the day—even when it’s chilly. Hydration is a quiet but powerful part of winter wellness.

03/15/2026

Spring is finally here!
Sunshine, blooming flowers… and for some of us… pollen everywhere. 🤧

If your spring soundtrack sounds like this:
• Achoo!
• sniffle
• ACHOO! again

You’re not alone. Seasonal allergies affect millions of people every year.

A few simple tips can help:
🌿 Check pollen counts before heading outside
😎 Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes
🚿 Shower after spending time outdoors
💧 Stay hydrated

Don’t let allergies steal your sunshine. Get the right care and enjoy everything spring has to offer. 🌞🌸

03/14/2026

🛴 Scooter Safety: Ride Smart, Stay Safe

Electric scooters are a convenient and fun way to get around — especially here in Florida where sunshine makes outdoor travel easy year-round. But with convenience comes responsibility.

Emergency rooms are seeing a rise in scooter-related injuries, many involving preventable falls, head trauma, and fractures.

A few simple precautions can make a major difference.

🪖 Wear a Helmet

Head injuries are among the most serious scooter-related injuries. A properly fitted helmet significantly reduces risk.

⚡ Control Your Speed

Scooters can reach 15–20 mph quickly. Slow down in crowded areas, near intersections, and on uneven surfaces.

👀 Stay Alert

Avoid headphones or phone use while riding. Situational awareness is critical for reacting to traffic, pedestrians, and sudden obstacles.

🛣️ Watch the Surface

Florida roads and sidewalks can have:

Sand buildup

Wet patches after sudden rain

Uneven pavement

Hidden debris

Even small surface changes can cause sudden loss of balance.

🚦 Follow Traffic Rules

Treat scooters like vehicles:

Obey traffic signals

Yield to pedestrians

Ride in designated areas

Avoid weaving through traffic

💪 Know Your Limits

Scooters require balance, quick reflexes, and coordination. If you have dizziness, joint instability, recent surgery, or mobility concerns, reconsider riding or consult your provider first.

03/13/2026

There once were some manatees slow,
Who drifted where warm waters flow.
While monkeys up high
Swung low through the sky,
In Florida’s sunshine glow. 🌞

Gentle sea cows below in the blue,
And monkeys with mischief to do —
From rivers to trees,
They live as they please,
In a wild little tropical zoo. 🌿

Florida magic is easy to see —
From playful primates to calm manatee.
Respect them, admire them,
But never go near them —
Let nature stay wild and free. 🐾

03/12/2026

The Health Benefits of Cuddling Animals: More Than Just Comfort

There’s something instantly calming about cuddling a dog, cat, or even holding a small animal in your arms. That soft fur, steady breathing, and quiet companionship do more than warm your heart — they support your health in measurable ways.

At Chambers Medical, we believe wellness includes both physical and emotional health. And time with animals beautifully supports both.

💓 Lowers Stress & Blood Pressure

Studies show that petting an animal can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) while increasing oxytocin — the “bonding hormone.” Within minutes, heart rate and blood pressure can decrease.

That relaxed feeling? It’s physiological.

😊 Boosts Mood & Reduces Anxiety

Animal interaction stimulates serotonin and dopamine — chemicals associated with happiness and calm. This is why therapy animals are often used in hospitals, schools, and recovery centers.

A few quiet minutes with a pet can reset your entire day.

🧠 Supports Mental Health

Companionship from animals can:

Reduce feelings of loneliness

Provide emotional stability

Encourage routine and responsibility

Create a sense of purpose

For seniors especially, pets can be powerful mood stabilizers.

🚶 Encourages Physical Activity

Dog owners naturally walk more. Even small increases in daily movement improve cardiovascular health, joint mobility, and overall stamina.

Your furry friend might just be your most loyal fitness coach.

❤️ Strengthens the Heart

Research has linked pet ownership with improved heart health and even increased survival rates after cardiac events. The calming effect on the nervous system plays a role in long-term cardiovascular protection.

A Gentle Reminder

A Gentle Reminder

While animals provide incredible benefits, safety matters:

Supervise children around pets

Keep vaccinations current

Be mindful of allergies

Use proper lifting technique for larger animals to avoid back strain

Wellness isn’t always complicated. Sometimes it looks like a quiet moment on the couch with a loyal companion resting beside you.

03/11/2026

E-Bike Safety: Enjoy the Ride, Protect Your Health

E-bikes have changed the way we move. They’re fun, efficient, and a great way to explore Florida’s beautiful neighborhoods, parks, and waterfront paths. They make cycling more accessible for all ages — and that’s a wonderful thing.

But with increased speed comes increased risk.

At Chambers Medical, we’re seeing more injuries related to e-bike accidents — many of which could be prevented with a few smart precautions.

⚡ Know Your Speed

E-bikes can reach 20–28 mph. That’s significantly faster than a traditional bicycle. Always adjust your speed based on terrain, pedestrians, and traffic conditions.

🪖 Wear a Helmet — Always

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of bike accidents. A properly fitted helmet dramatically reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury.

🚦 Follow Traffic Laws

E-bikes are not toys. Treat them like vehicles:

Obey traffic signals

Use hand signals

Ride with traffic

Avoid sidewalks unless permitted

👀 Stay Visible

Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at dawn or dusk. Make sure your bike lights are working properly.

📱 No Distractions

No texting. No headphones blocking your hearing. Situational awareness is critical.

🛠️ Check Your Equipment

Before riding:

Test brakes

Check tire pressure

Ensure battery is secure

Adjust seat height for control

💪 Be Physically Prepared

E-bikes still require balance, coordination, and quick reaction time. If you’ve had recent surgery, joint instability, dizziness, or mobility issues, consult your provider before riding.

Florida-Specific Reminders 🌴

• Sand on roads and trails can reduce traction
• Afternoon storms can create slick surfaces
• Increased seasonal traffic means more vehicles on the road

03/10/2026

Car Accidents and Heart Attacks

Car accidents and heart attacks are two of the leading causes of injury and death worldwide. Although they are usually discussed separately, they share connections. Dr. Deryk Harting of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor care providers in Florida, discusses car accidents and heart attacks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), traffic injuries account for over a million deaths globally each year. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports more than 40,000 annual fatalities and many more people suffering serious injuries.

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, like bone fractures, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal bleeding. Crashes can also place extreme stress on the cardiovascular system. The sudden shock and physical trauma can cause significant spikes in blood pressure and heart rate. For people with underlying heart disease, this acute stress may increase the risk of a cardiac event.

In some cases, a heart attack occurs first and directly leads to an accident. A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, happens when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, often due to a clot in a coronary artery. Symptoms include chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and lightheadedness.

If a driver experiences these symptoms, even a momentary loss of focus can result in a major accident. In more severe cases, sudden cardiac arrest may cause the driver to lose consciousness and lead to a loss of control. Risk factors for heart attacks include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Alternatively, the stress and physical trauma of a car accident can lead to a heart attack, especially in older adults or those with preexisting conditions. The body’s fight or flight response releases stress hormones like adrenaline, which increase heart rate and blood pressure. For vulnerable individuals, this increase can strain the heart enough to trigger a blockage or rhythm disruption. Additionally, blunt chest trauma sustained during an accident can directly injure the heart. While less common, cardiac contusions, arrhythmias, pericardial injury, or other serious complications can occur.

After a car accident, people should not ignore symptoms such as chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, or persistent nausea. These could be signals of a developing heart attack. Emergency care providers play a crucial role in early intervention. Receiving a prompt and thorough evaluation, including electrocardiograms (ECGs) and necessary treatment can significantly reduce heart damage and improve survival rates.

Preventive measures include wearing seat belts, following traffic laws, avoiding distracted or impaired driving, and properly maintaining vehicles. Managing cardiovascular risk factors with routine medical checkups, proper medication use, healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and smoking cessation all lowers the risk of a heart attack.

Ultimately, the connection between car accidents and cardiac events is both important and often overlooked. By understanding their overlap individuals can make well informed decisions to protect their overall health and well-being.

-- This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

03/09/2026

Sunshine & Steps: Why Walking Is Your Spring Superpower

There’s something magical about walking in spring. The fresh air, blooming trees, and sunlight don’t just lift your mood — they support real health benefits.

Walking can:

Improve cardiovascular health

Reduce joint stiffness

Boost circulation

Elevate mood and mental clarity

If you’ve been less active over the winter months, start slow. Even 15–30 minutes daily can make a meaningful difference.

And if joint pain or mobility challenges are holding you back, our team at Chambers Medical can help you safely increase activity so you can enjoy the season without setbacks.

03/08/2026

The Science of Sneezing

Sneezing feels simple but actually it is a complex, coordinated neurological reflex designed to protect your body. Dr. Deryk Harting of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor care programs in Florida, discusses the science of sneezing. A sneeze starts with some type of irritation. The lining of the nose contains sensitive nerve endings which transmit sensations through the trigeminal nerve. This lining is stimulated when particles like dust, pollen, smoke, or pathogens enter the nasal cavity. Specialized cells detect the particles and send signals to the brainstem.

Within the brainstem, the primary area responsible for sneezing is in the medulla oblongata. It processes incoming sensory information and determines if the irritation is strong enough to trigger a reflex. If the threshold is reached, the medulla initiates a fast and coordinated response.

First comes a deep inhalation as the diaphragm contracts and pulls air into the lungs. The glottis, which is the opening between the vocal cords and plays a vital role in breathing, then closes. Pressure builds inside the chest as the muscles of the chest and abdomen contract strongly. This only lasts a moment until the glottis quickly opens and air explodes out through the nose and mouth. This powerful airflow clears the airway and carries mucus and particles with it.

Although the expelled air typically travels around 10 miles per hour, the greater health concern is the thousands of tiny droplets released. Some of these airborne droplets are large and fall quickly. However, smaller droplets form a cloud that can continue to expand and linger in the air for several minutes, which is why sneezing plays a significant role in spreading respiratory infections.

Allergies are a common example of repeated sneezing. In allergic rhinitis, the immune system overreacts to harmless particles from pollen or pet dander. Immune cells then release histamine and other chemicals. These substances increase blood flow and mucus production in the nasal lining. They also increase nerve sensitivity that results in itching, congestion, and frequent sneezing.

Infections trigger sneezing through a similar but distinct pathway. Viruses like those causing the common cold or flu infect cells in the nasal lining. The immune response produces inflammation. Then swelling and excess mucus irritate local nerves, and the sneeze reflex activates to help remove viral particles.

Some sneezes have unusual triggers. Bright light can provoke sneezing in some people. This phenomenon is known as the photic sneeze reflex. It is believed to involve interactions or ‘cross wiring’ between the optic nerve and the trigeminal nerve. In some rare cases, strong emotions (usually excitement), a full stomach, or even sudden temperature changes may also cause sneezing.

Sneezing rarely occurs during sleep because the brain is less responsive to external sensations, the stimulation threshold is higher, and reflex pathways are inhibited. Mild nasal irritation typically does not cause sneezing but if the signal is strong enough, it will either wake the person up first or trigger a sneeze as they wake up.

Sneezing is not usually harmful to the body. In fact, it provides an important defensive role against irritants or pathogens. However, suppressing a sneeze by physically blocking the nose and mouth can be risky. Pressure must escape somewhere or it will be redirected into the throat, sinuses, middle ear, or eardrum and potentially cause damage.

In the end, sneezing is a protective response. It is fast, automatic, and efficient. What feels like a brief explosion is a highly coordinated reflex arc and sign that your defense systems are working properly.

-- This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

03/07/2026

Chambers Medical Group made a sweet stop at the Strawberry Festival — where the berries are big, the smiles are bigger, and the strawberry shortcake might just be the best medicine of all. 🍓
Healthy living… with a side of whipped cream. 😉

Florida Strawberry Festival

03/06/2026

What Is an MRI and How Does It Work?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an important diagnostic tool that allows physicians to see detailed images of the human body. It is regarded as a highly valuable imaging technology in medicine due to its ability to evaluate soft tissues. Dr. Deryk Harting of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical physician care facilities in Florida, explains what an MRI is and how it works.

MRI technology was developed in the early 1970s, and the first human MRI scan was performed in 1977. An MRI scanner uses a strong magnetic field, radiofrequency (RF) pulses, and computer processing to create cross-sectional images. Cross-sectional images are ‘slice by slice’ pictures of the body that help doctors see a variety of soft tissue layers and pinpoint potential problems.

The human body contains a large amount of water, and water molecules contain hydrogen atoms. Each hydrogen atom has a proton that behaves like a tiny magnet due to a property called ‘spin.’ During a scan, the machine’s magnet temporarily aligns these protons in one direction instead of their normal, random orientation. The scanner then uses RF pulses that temporarily disturb this alignment. As the protons return to their original state, they release energy. Sensors detect this and a computer converts the signals into detailed images.

Different soft tissues like muscle, fat, cartilage, and brain matter produce distinct signals. This variation allows MRI to produce detailed contrast between soft tissues. This makes MRI especially useful for evaluating areas where other imaging techniques like CT scans and X-rays provide less soft tissue detail and contrast. Medical professionals order MRI scans for a wide range of reasons. Common indications include:

• Neurological conditions: MRI is frequently used to evaluate the brain and spinal cord for conditions such as tumors, stroke, multiple sclerosis, aneurysms, nerve compression, and spinal disc injuries.
• Musculoskeletal injuries: It is highly effective for assessing ligament tears, tendon damage, cartilage degeneration, and other joint abnormalities.
• Cardiovascular conditions: MRI can assess heart structure, function, and certain vascular conditions.
• Abdominal and pelvic imaging: It helps evaluate organs such as the liver, kidneys, uterus, and prostate.
• Oncology: MRI assists in detecting, staging, and monitoring tumors.

MRI is often compared with computed tomography (CT). While both produce cross-sectional images, they function on different principles. A CT scan uses X-rays and computers to create images of bones, blood vessels, and certain soft tissues. CT scans are quicker compared to MRI and are especially useful in emergency settings such as bleeding, traumatic injuries, or fractures. MRI provides better soft tissue contrast and can detect even slight soft tissue abnormalities. However, MRI exams usually take longer, 20 to 60 minutes, and can be more sensitive to patient movement. Additionally, patients with certain implanted devices, such as pacemakers, may not be eligible for MRI due to the strong magnetic field. CT scans expose patients to ionizing radiation, while MRI does not. This difference can be significant when considering imaging tests and radiation exposure. Because MRI does not use ionizing radiation, it is often preferred for younger patients or those requiring repeated imaging.

MRI is a safe, noninvasive scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s soft tissues. It helps doctors diagnose and monitor a range of neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, abdominal, and oncologic conditions accurately. While MRI scans may not be appropriate for every patient or condition, they represent an essential component of modern diagnostic imaging.

-- This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

Chambers Medical Group

03/17/2026

03/16/2026

03/15/2026

03/14/2026

03/13/2026

03/12/2026

03/11/2026

03/10/2026

03/09/2026

03/08/2026

03/07/2026

03/06/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category