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It is always wise to see a medical provider as soon as possible after a car accident. However, which medical provider you should see depends on many factors. Our New Jersey personal injury attorneys discuss several issues in this blog that could help you decide if you should see a chiropractor after a car accident in New Jersey.
Understanding the Role of Chiropractic Care in Post-Accident Recovery
Back, shoulder, and neck injuries are common car accident injuries. A chiropractor uses small instruments and their hands to perform spinal manipulation. The goal is to improve the body’s physical function and spinal motion. Chiropractic care can also help relieve neck and back pain by correcting alignment problems.
Identifying Hidden Injuries After a Car Accident: The Chiropractic Perspective
Soft tissue injuries can be missed during an examination after a car accident. Unfortunately, soft tissue injuries and related conditions can be difficult to diagnose after a car accident. These injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Abnormal vertebral movement
- Contusions
- Sprains and strains
- Tendonitis
- Ruptured fact capsular ligament (FCL)
- Ligament or muscle tears
- Herniated discs
- Whiplash
- Head injuries and concussions
- Knee injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Muscle, joints, ligaments, and other soft tissue injuries can cause severe pain. A chiropractor identifies the injuries and develops a treatment plan to reduce the pain, improve motion and flexibility, and speed healing.
How Chiropractic Treatment Can Aid in Pain Relief After a Car Accident
Micro-tears in the muscles and ligaments are common because of the force placed on the body during a car crash. Chiropractic manipulations can help the body release anti-inflammatory chemicals that reduce swelling and pain. Studies have revealed that spinal manipulation can release pain-relieving hormones like neurotensin, oxytocin, orexin A, and cortisol.
The Long-Term Benefits of Seeking Chiropractic Care Post-Accident
Because some injuries might not be shown on imaging tests, the injuries can be overlooked. If left untreated, the injuries could worsen. Therefore, chiropractic care can reduce the risk of long-term complications and symptoms after a car accident.
Chiropractic care has other possible benefits, including:
- Reduces pain without medication
- Improves mobility
- Restores range of motion
- Reduces scar tissue
- Minimizes the need for surgery
- Speeds up healing
- Reduces inflammation
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment for car accident injuries. It also reduces the need for pain medications, which can have severe side effects for some patients.
Addressing the Skepticism: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care
Because many view chiropractic care as a branch of alternative medicine, many myths and misconceptions exist. A common misconception is that chiropractors are not “real” doctors. However, chiropractors complete extensive education and training before earning their degree and being licensed in New Jersey.
Another common misconception is that chiropractic care is dangerous. Some believe it can worsen an injury or lead to new injuries. However, chiropractic adjustments are generally safe when performed by licensed chiropractors. Chiropractic care may not be the best treatment for some injuries. It is always wise to seek a second opinion if you are concerned.
It is a misconception that chiropractors only treat back pain. Chiropractors treat a wide range of injuries and health conditions that encompass the entire musculoskeletal system.
Essential Steps to Take Following a Car Accident in New Jersey
The steps you take after a car accident in New Jersey can improve your chance of receiving a fair settlement for your car accident claim. Steps to take after a car crash include:
- Call 911 to report the crash
- Remain at the accident scene
- Gather evidence by taking photographs and making videos of the accident scene
- Ask eyewitnesses for their contact information
- Seek immediate medical treatment
- Document damages by keeping copies of all records related to the accident and tracking your financial losses and expenses
Do not admit fault or apologize for the car accident. Admitting fault could significantly impact your ability to recover economic and non-economic damages for a car accident claim.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys for a FREE Consultation
Seeking legal advice after a car accident is wise. Understanding your legal options for a personal injury claim is the best way to protect your rights. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact us today to discuss how we can help you get the money you deserve.