Auto accidents are a leading cause of injury in the United States, often resulting in neck or back pain. Seeing a chiropractor after an accident is essential in treating these injuries and ensuring they don’t lead to long-term problems. But how many times should someone visit the chiropractor after an accident?
Read on to understand what type of injuries can be treated with chiropractic care, what to expect from a chiropractor after an accident, and how often someone should visit the chiropractor.
Injuries That Can Be Treated With Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment for many types of injuries resulting from auto accidents. These include:
a) Whiplash
Whiplash is the most common injury in car accidents and often manifests as pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. Chiropractic adjustment can help to reduce inflammation, restore range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and improve mobility.
b) Back Injuries
Back injuries are common after a car accident. These include sprains, strains, herniated discs, and fractures. Depending on the severity of the injury, a chiropractor may recommend treatment for 3 to 8 weeks. While most people experience relief after 5 to 7 treatments, the duration differs for each patient and depends on the injury sustained. The chiropractor will likely advise strengthening exercises and lifestyle changes such as improved posture or sleeping positions to help speed up recovery.
c) Injuries to the Ligament
The neck, shoulders, and spine ligaments can be sprained or torn in a car accident. Depending on the severity of these injuries, it may take anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks for them to heal correctly. Chiropractic treatment can help reduce inflammation and pain while restoring the range of motion. Treatment usually lasts 3 to 8 weeks, with one to two sessions per week, depending on the severity of the injury. For example, more treatments will be required if the ligaments are severely torn.
d) Soft Tissue Injuries
Auto accidents can also cause soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains in the neck, back, and other body parts. These injuries are more difficult to diagnose but can still be debilitating and require specific care. A chiropractor uses manual therapies such as massage and stretches to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore mobility. Depending on the severity of your injury, it is recommended that you visit a chiropractor regularly for 3-10 visits or until all symptoms have subsided. Regular follow-up appointments can monitor your progress and help ensure that any new pain or discomfort is addressed promptly.
e) Chronic Soreness and Pain
You must see a chiropractor for regular adjustments if you experience chronic soreness or pain after an accident. Chronic pain occurs when the injury is not healed correctly, and your body continues to suffer from the trauma of the accident. If you are in pain for more than a couple of weeks, you should see a chiropractor for regular adjustments to help speed up healing and reduce discomfort. Adjustments can help realign the spine, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.
Call LifeGiving Chiropractic for the best auto injury chiropractor in Roswell. Our experts will create a comprehensive treatment plan, utilizing chiropractic care, manual therapy, and physical rehabilitation to help you recover from the effects of your accident.