Auto accidents, even minor ones (yes, that parking lot fender bender), can result in a range of spinal injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions that can not only cause pain but diminish range of motion and function. At Christel Chiropractic, we have the expertise to help patients fully recover from their auto accident injuries.
Common Types of Injuries We See Post-Accident
The most common spinal injury resulting from auto accidents is whiplash, a condition that occurs when the head is forcefully jerked forward and back. This motion stretches the neck muscles and ligaments, leading to strains and sprains.
Other injuries include mid and lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome from gripping the wheel, and headaches or migraines. Even low-speed (e.g. 5 mph) accidents can cause substantial injury due to the force exerted by a vehicle’s mass. The position of the body and head at the time of impact can also influence the severity and type of injury sustained.
How We Address Whiplash and Other Injuries
Chiropractic care is particularly effective for addressing whiplash. This often involves realigning the spine and relieving pressure on affected nerves and muscles. Chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercises can help restore mobility and ease pain.
What About Traditional Medical Treatments?
The primary difference between chiropractic care and traditional medical care is their approach. Chiropractic care focuses on correcting misalignments caused by trauma, which can rearrange muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae. On the other hand, traditional medicine typically prescribes painkillers or muscle relaxants, which only address symptoms and may not address the underlying issues. If you don’t treat the root cause, issues like arthritis can set in down the road.
Immediate Steps to Minimize Spinal Damage
After an auto accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent due to adrenaline that masks the pain. Within the first 24-48 hours, it’s important to rest and use topical pain relievers if necessary.
According to various studies, people who experience pain immediately after an accident are more likely to suffer from long-term issues if untreated. If you experience severe pain immediately, getting care right away is vital.
Preparing for Your First Chiropractic Visit
If you’re coming into the practice for care after an auto accident, it’s necessary to bring relevant documentation to your initial appointment. This includes your insurance claim number and contact information for your insurance provider.
Fortunately, most personal injury plans fully cover chiropractic care, so filing a claim shouldn’t cause your premiums to increase. Additionally, chiropractic clinics like Christel Chiropractic often work alongside primary care physicians or refer patients for X-rays to ensure a comprehensive assessment of injuries.
Common Misconceptions About Auto Accident Injuries
A common misconception is that symptoms not immediately apparent after an accident won’t be covered by insurance. “However, symptoms like headaches, dizziness, vision problems, trouble sleeping, ringing in the ears, and loss of motion and balance don’t always show up within a day or two,” said Dr. Christel.
Waiting too long to seek care can make establishing a clear link to the accident challenging, but insurance companies typically recognize a reasonable delay in symptoms. Dr. Christel recommends getting care as soon as possible, ideally within a week and no later than 30 days after the accident.
Book an Appointment
If you’ve been in an auto accident, it’s crucial to seek care right away so you can heal properly. Contact Christel Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment.
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