A car accident is no joke. Even if the accident was minor and you feel fine, seeing your doctor is always a good idea. Some injuries don’t immediately manifest, and seeing a professional will help you prevent potential complications down the road (no pun intended). Check out these tips on how to feel better after a car accident.
If you need more convincing, here are some signs to watch out for:
- Pain or stiffness may indicate whiplash, soft tissue damage, spinal stress or injury, or muscle or ligament damage.
- Headaches or dizziness could be a sign of concussion, whiplash, or even a blood clot. Even a light blow to the head should be checked by a professional.
- Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or neck could mean nerve damage, a pinched nerve, or a herniated disc.
- Trouble sleeping or mood changes like anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, irritability, or memory issues can be the result of trauma to the brain. Delayed depression or emotional stress is not uncommon.
- Your symptoms will get worse over time. Some injuries take days or weeks to manifest, so don’t ignore delayed pain or discomfort.
Next steps after diagnosis:
Recovery from a car accident can be slow, but it is worth the commitment. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for medications, follow-up appointments, and physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises. For everyday management of pain and inflammation, reduce swelling with ice and avoid strenuous activities. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Pushing yourself too hard too soon can slow down recovery.
Pain relief without medication:
Chiropractic care is one of the most beneficial treatments post-car accident, especially for musculoskeletal injuries. Adjustments help relieve pain naturally by reducing inflammation and improving spinal alignment. This also releases natural painkillers like endorphins. Chiropractic care is a holistic, noninvasive approach encompassing natural healing, stretching, and strengthening exercises. The benefits of chiropractic care include:
- Reducing inflammation by improving blood circulation and promoting healing.
- Restoring mobility in the spine and joints.
- Addressing whiplash and soft tissue injuries, reducing headaches, dizziness, and neck pain through realignment of the neck.
- Preventing long-term pain and chronic conditions that result from untreated injuries.
- Improving nervous system function through spinal alignment reduces numbness and tingling and ensures proper nerve function.
- Relieving pressure on the nerves and reducing headaches and dizziness.
Many chiropractors also offer massage therapy, rehabilitative exercises, and lifestyle advice to help speed up recovery.
Your primary care doctor or ER physician may recommend a trusted chiropractor. Many chiropractors offer a free initial consultation to discuss your injuries. This will allow you to learn about their approach, treatment plan, and expected recovery time. Prioritizing medical attention after a car accident ensures proper healing and prevents long-term complications.
If you’ve been in an accident and are seeking chiropractic care, call us at 503-574-4872 or visit tpcportland.com.