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Chiropractic Treatment for Common Accidents
ShareThisChiropractic medicine is a healthcare profession that is used to heal the body naturally. This type of medicine assists in the healing of the central nervous system that is attached along the spinal column. Chiropractic medicine improves overall health by encouraging the proper placement of the bones which allows blood flow in and out of the organs and tissues of the body.
In general, chiropractic care focuses on the treatment of the following injuries:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Joint pain
- Headaches
Some of the most common sources of accidents that arise from these types of injuries are automobile and workplace related.
Auto Accidents
Auto accident injuries include problems ranging from whiplash to spinal alignment disruptions to headaches and general tension.
Whiplash/Neck pain: Whiplash injuries occur when a person's spine, usually their neck, is hurt by being thrown quickly in one direction and then in the opposite direction. The effects of whiplash can be short term or sometimes long-lasting causing concussions or injury to joints, discs, and ligaments, cervical muscles, and nerves. It can be more serious leaving the neck permanently vulnerable to injury. The injury can also extend to shoulders and arms.
When a chiropractor treats an individual who was injured as a result of whiplash, the doctor will focus on one of more of the following:
- Joint dysfunction
- Muscle dysfunction
- Faulty movement patterns
- Disc derangement
Headaches/Tension/Arthritis: When drivers or passengers seem to be uninjured after an auto accident, it is not uncommon for the injuries to remain hidden for a period of time. As a result, individuals might forgo medical treatment. After several months, the pain may be "felt" in the form of headaches and tension in the back and neck. Eventually, the symptoms may worsen and debilitate the individual. It is at this point that he or she might consider visiting a chiropractor.
Even minor fender-benders can cause hidden injuries that can develop into headaches and arthritis. The chiropractic approach is to use specific adjustments to help return spinal function. If caught early enough, inflammation can be reduced and scar tissue can be minimized.
Note: Auto insurance may pay for chiropractic service, so consider calling your insurance company and inquire ahead of time.
Work-Related Accidents
Common work injuries include spine disorders and cumulative trauma from repetitive motions, which cause carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis. Other work related injuries include low back pain, headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain, and pinched nerves. These injuries are caused by repetitive movements including typing, sitting for prolonged periods, and heavy lifting.
Some studies have shown that chiropractic treatment have helped individuals return to work in half the time it would take if they had sought medical care alone. These studies have been independently performed by several states' Workers Compensation departments.
Note: Keep in mind that your employer is required to pay for all necessary chiropractic care for work-related injuries. All work-related injuries must be reported to your employer within 30 days of your knowledge of its occurrence.
