How Soon After a Car Accident Should I See a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors use an all-inclusive form of treatment that focuses on neuromuscular disorders. This treatment is not dependent on invasive procedures like surgery or medication. Chiropractic treatment involves manual spinal manipulation using hands in addition to other alternative treatments.

 

Types of Car Accident Injuries

The most common injuries affect the upper body parts, mainly the head and the neck. However, this does not mean that the lower part of your body is safe from injury. Whiplash often happens, as your head and neck are not protected by the seat belt like the rest of the upper part of your body.

 

The force of impact causes your head to jolt forward and then back very fast. This affects the muscle and tendons in your neck, possibly causing a herniated disc too. If the airbags go off, your back and spine may also be injured.

 

Why See a Chiropractor?

While your primary doctor may take care of minor injuries sustained after an accident, a chiropractor can determine the full extent of your injuries. Some injuries like whiplash may not cause symptoms immediately.

 

The longer they remain undetected, may lead to more complications that may require surgery and other invasive procedures. In the end, some injuries may never heal properly the longer they remain unattended.

 

If the injuries sustained result from the recklessness of another party, it is necessary to see a chiropractor as soon as possible. Otherwise, it makes it easier for them to claim the injuries did not result from the accident once you sue. Also, some minor injuries may have already healed, making the accident less serious than it was.

 

When to See a Chiropractor

It may not be possible to see a chiropractor immediately after an accident, but it is advisable to do so as soon as possible. Though laws vary from state to state, the minimum time given for your injuries to be documented is 14 days.

 

Services Offered by a Chiropractor

Chiropractors focus on the close relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Chiropractic treatment can realign the structure and integrity of the spine. This helps reduce pressure on neurological tissue and improves the health of a patient.

 

Chiropractic treatment may also be appealing as it does not often use medication. Sometimes you may need to make several appointments, especially if you sustained injuries that were not treated correctly. The treatments will help you improve your mobility in addition to relieving pain. Many chiropractors also use exercise in addition to dietary counseling in their treatments.

 

Reactions to Chiropractic Adjustments

Normally, chiropractic adjustments will cause aches and sores in spinal muscles and the joints. It should not last longer than 24 hours. Application of an ice pack in the first few hours post-treatment helps alleviate the symptoms fast.

 

To know when to see a chiropractor after an accident, visit Wellness One Chiropractic at our office in Palm Coast, Florida. You can call (386) 447-9930 today to book an appointment.