Auto Accident

Auto Injury & Whiplash Treatment

The most common injury from an auto accident (over 1,000,000 cases per year) is “whiplash” injury. Since there is no visible injury and the initial pain is not severe, people do not often seek professional help. This is a big mistake.

Why Chiropractic Treatment for Auto Injuries?

Initial medical treatment for the typical auto injury usually consists of painkillers and a neck brace. This approach does little to repair the underlying injury. Chiropractic treatment is the primary method for repair and strengthening of damaged tissue and for avoiding excessive scar growth. Regardless of the severity of the injury, you will benefit from a chiropractic treatment program.

When Do I Start Treatment for an Auto Accident Injury?

It is highly recommended to begin chiropractic treatment as soon as possible following an auto accident. Treatment will be initiated to control pain and diminish swelling. Small movements are introduced to begin your tissue’s repair process.

However, you can begin chiropractic treatment anytime. If pain or dysfunction remains, chiropractic treatment can help. Most connective tissue injuries are quite slow to heal. There is no question that chiropractic treatment is beneficial in helping you return to full function.

Failure to receive proper treatment after an auto injury could result in long-term health issues.

Example: In a study of 100 people who were rear-ended, 14% of people still had significant pain after 8 years! In addition to neck and back pain, you may experience headaches, dizziness, numbness, vision problems, and difficulty concentrating. You also have a much higher risk of degenerative disc disease later in life.

The long term symptoms of whiplash injury

Nationwide, an estimated 1/3 of people who suffer whiplash injuries continue to have symptoms even three years after their accidents. Common complaints include neck pain, shoulder symptoms, headaches, problems with vision, dizziness, difficulty reading, and problems with concentration. Why does our nation have such a problem treating these injuries?

It may be because we, as a nation, focus on the muscles and joints when rehabilitating whiplash, even though more than muscles and joints are damaged by this injury. Whiplash often damages the neurological systems that control balance and how your eyes move (the oculomotor and vestibular systems). Research shows that people who do not recover quickly from whiplash often have damage to these systems.

Chiropractic Treatment for Auto Accident & Whiplash Injuries

Fortunately for people in the Lowell area, Dr. Paul Daigle of Central Street Chiropractic has training and experience of over 25 years on how to treat these types of injuries. Results are best when the treatment is started soon after the injury, but even patients who have suffered with symptoms for a long time can make good progress with our thorough treatment techniques. Call now to get started.