Physical Therapy After Auto Accident
Recent studies have shown that early movement and activity, rather than immobilization, helps reduce the symptoms of whiplash as well as encourage recovery of the upper back and neck. Your chiropractor or physician may recommend the use of a soft cervical collar to help support the head and relieve pressure on the neck while ligaments heal. More readily available treatments for whiplash include plenty of rest, ice, compression and elevation. Ice may be applied for the first 24 hours, followed by gentle active movement. Over the counter pain medications are also helpful to reduce inflammation and pain. They are reliable and effective when used appropriately for moderate pain relief.
Neck and upper back injuries are one of the most common problems resulting from a car accident. Car accident neck injuries can result in symptoms such as pain in your neck, headaches, pain in your shoulders, arms or hands, reduced range of motion in your neck, numbness, weakness and slower reflexes in your arms and hands, and muscle spasms in your neck.
To understand car accident neck injuries, you have to know something about the anatomy of your spine. This is why working with doctors of chiropractic to correct whiplash type injuries makes so much sense. Chiropractors are specifically trained to deal with spinal issues resulting from impact trauma and much more. Through diagnostic examination, digital x-rays and hands on manipulation, your local chiropractor can diagnose, treat and adjust you back to optimal health.
Chiropractors focus on the treatments for different neck injuries using alternative methods of rehabilitation including adjustments, physical rehabilitation, lifestyle changes and wellness programs. However, given the severity of the neck injury your chiropractor can refer you to a medical doctor who can then assist recovery and alleviate inflammation and pain with medications and in the most serious cases surgery.