The fact that there are more than six million passenger vehicle accidents every year in the US makes the chance that you might get in an accident and sustain auto injuries fairly good. Knowing what to do after an accident is important. Dr. Jon Walwick of Walwick Chiropractic in Escondido, CA is experienced with the types of injuries you may sustain and how to treat them.
Many people who are in an auto accident don't feel the effects immediately. It can take days or even weeks for the pain to set in. The result of whiplash can be felt in your neck, back, and shoulders and involve both the spine and the soft tissues. The first thing that will happen is Dr. Walwick will do an initial examination and then discuss his findings with you. Your treatment plan will be personalized to you.
Spinal adjustment and manipulation
The impact of a collision can cause the vertebrae in the neck to move out of alignment. When this happens, pain can be the result and nothing will work as efficiently as it will if the messages are able to flow freely from the brain to the rest of the body. There are many different adjustment techniques that your chiropractor may use, and he may use more than one. Some are gentle, some more forceful, but they all have the same goal, to restore full function to the spine.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is the use of cold packs to help with pain, inflammation, and swelling. It is often used in the immediate aftermath of an accident or injury.
Electrical stimulation therapy
This therapy uses electric current to stimulate muscles which causes them to contract slightly and get tired. When they tire out, they relax and this lessens pain and muscle spasms that may be caused by auto injuries. It also stimulates the production of endorphins which help with pain reduction.
Therapeutic exercise
Therapeutic exercises are specifically targeted exercises designed to treat your injury. It is used to maintain and restore mobility, improve balance, and increase circulation. It allows you to continue treatment at home between chiropractic visits as well as in the office.
Contact Dr. Walwick of Walwick Chiropractic in Escondido, CA as soon as possible after your auto injuries. Our office can be reached at 760-741-1805 or fill out the contact form on the website.