Fear, confusion, and anxiety are just a few of the emotions running high after a car accident. For some, injuries sustained may be severe and immediately apparent. However, during such a stressful time, it’s not unusual for some very common injuries to go unnoticed until much later. In some cases, it may take days or even weeks for the involved parties to feel the full extent of damage done by their collision. For this reason, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately following an accident, regardless of the level of pain or discomfort.
For many, a qualified chiropractor may be the ideal first choice for evaluation. Having been trained to identify and treat injuries of the back and neck, many of the most common auto accident related injuries can benefit greatly from a targeted treatment plan. Specifically, the following injuries and pains have been shown to be treatable with chiropractic care:
Whiplash
– Whiplash is one of the most common ailments seen after an auto accident. As the head and neck are forcefully moved back and forth or from side to side, soft tissue injuries to the muscles, ligaments and tendons can result. When left untreated, whiplash has the ability to cause months or even years of pain. Through spinal manipulation and soft tissue rehabilitation, a chiropractor can often help alleviate this pain.
Headaches – Tension headaches are frequently triggered by neck injuries. It may not be immediately apparent that ongoing headaches are related to a previous auto accident, but it is estimated that up to 80% of individuals who experience injuries such as whiplash will also suffer from headaches. By addressing the source of these headaches through treatment of the injured soft tissue, a chiropractor can bring significant relief.
Lower Back Pain – Lower back injuries from a car accident can range from muscle and ligament damage to herniated lumbar discs. Injuries in this area can be difficult to effectively treat and can mean years of chronic pain. Chiropractors are often able to successfully bring relief that may not otherwise be obtainable through therapies such as spinal manipulation and mobilization.
Assuming that a lack of immediate pain also means a lack of injury is a common mistake following a car accident. For injuries of the neck and back in particular, it is important that they be identified and that treatment begins as soon as possible. Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear or to improve on their own, seek out a qualified auto accident chiropractor as soon as possible. They will be able to help you identify the true extent of your injuries, while developing the most appropriate course of treatment, including seeing other physicians if necessary.
If you are located in the Lumberton Township, Burlington County, New Jersey area and have been involved in a car accident, contact Advanced Back and Neck Care. Our chiropractic physicians are highly skilled in the identification and treatment of auto accident injuries. To request a consultation, simply call (609) 261-7562 , or click here to schedule your appointment online.
