The World Health Organization estimates that 20 to 30 million people suffer an auto accident injury each year. One of the most common auto accident injuries is whiplash, also called cervical strain or neck strain. Dr. Ron Fried Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Rochester Hills provides treatment for auto accident injuries. Let’s look at the facts about treating auto accident injuries.

When the Pain Starts

Pain in the shoulder or neck can start right after a car accident or days, or even weeks, after the accident. People often do not feel the pain right after an accident because their adrenaline levels are high. Although adrenaline is not technically a painkiller, it does suppress the pain response to move all of the body’s energy into surviving a stressful situation. Shock can also mask the pain for days.

When to Seek Help

You should go to a general doctor or auto accident chiropractor to get checked out to be sure you have not suffered a fracture, internal bleeding, or other serious injuries. It is recommended to see a chiropractor within three days of the accident. Your health insurance company may require you to seek medical care as soon as possible. Also, seek help if the pain appears and does not go away for days or months after the accident.

Neck Braces or Collars

It used to be common practice for whiplash patients to wear neck braces or collars for weeks after a car accident. We now know that neck braces or collars are only to be used for a short period because prolonged use can weaken the neck muscles.

Chiropractic Care

One of the most effective treatments for whiplash is chiropractic care. A 2010 meta-study of 27 medical articles showed that chiropractic care helped treat whiplash-associated disorders or WAD. It not only helped reduce pain, but it restored much of the range of motion people had before their accidents. The spinal adjustments used today are much gentler and more effective than they were decades ago.

Postural Correction

After a spinal adjustment, good posture helps to keep your spine aligned correctly. Chiropractors help with your sitting and standing postures. You may be given exercises to do at home that are tailored to your specific needs. This will help you stay flexible and reduce your pain.

Massage Therapy

Massage helps stiff muscles to relax and improves blood circulation to reduce pain and inflammation. Many chiropractors also offer massage therapy sessions, so you do not have to travel to another office for your therapy.

Choose Chiropractic Care For Your Auto Accident Injury

There is no need to suffer from the pain of an auto accident injury. If you live in the Rochester Hills area, call Dr. Ron Fried Chiropractic & Wellness Center today at (248) 652-3343 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.