How Long Should I Wait Before Seeing a Chiropractor After a Car Accident?

So you got into a car accident…now you’re wondering how you long you should wait before seeing a an Everett chiropractor

Car accidents can be overwhelming, but if you have recently been in one, there are several things you should do as soon as possible. One of your biggest priorities is getting medical attention. Even if you feel fine, your injuries may not surface until days after the accident, including whiplash, a common injury that may take some time to emerge.

 

Whether you have apparent injuries or aren’t sure, it’s essential to go directly to the Emergency Room right after the collision to check for internal injuries, head injuries, and more. We recommend seeking emergency help since your primary care physician may not be set up to handle accident victims. They may not have the medical billing insurance system in place to properly bill a car accident.

Car accident injuries are important to treat.

If you have been injured, it’s essential that you don’t waste precious time.

When You Should See a Chiropractor

 

If you are experiencing whiplash, you should visit a chiropractor immediately after your treatment at the ER. Waiting until after a settlement from the car crash to begin chiropractic treatment could pause your healing process. Even if you do not have health insurance that will cover chiropractic care, and most insurance providers will, you may be able to receive reimbursement for the chiropractor after the settlement. Getting a settlement can be a lengthy process, even with an experienced attorney. It may take some time to gather evidence, witness statements, and medical reports.

 

Generally, you will want to see a chiropractor within 72 hours of the crash. Chiropractic treatment is a holistic form of medicine that does not use surgery or other invasive procedures. Most chiropractors can treat whiplash and other car accident injuries.

 

During your initial visit, your Everett or local chiropractor will conduct a physical examination, note your medical history, and take x-rays. In many cases, they will not perform an adjustment during this visit.

What Is Whiplash?

 

Whiplash often happens if your car has been rear-ended by another motor vehicle. The force of the impact may cause your head and neck to move back and forth suddenly, like a whip. This can form severe pressure on the soft tissues and the intervertebral discs.

Whiplash Symptoms

Commonly, neck pain is the most immediate sign of whiplash, but there are other signs. If you have been rear-ended, you may also experience:

car accident neck pain
What is whiplash?
  • Arm pain
  • Pain in the shoulders
  • Back pain
  • Blurry vision
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Depression

It can take up to 48 hours for you to feel the effects of whiplash that can continue worsening. When looking for a chiropractor, look for someone who has experience with car accident injuries. Some chiropractors may specialize in sports injuries or other types of pain.

If you have a personal injury lawyer, they may be able to recommend a reputable healer.

Chiropractic Treatment in Everett for Whiplash

 

There are various forms of chiropractic treatment for whiplash, including spinal manipulation by hand. Treatment for whiplash and other injuries can also involve electrical muscle stimulation, massage, ultrasound, and other non-invasive practices.

Overall, seeking chiropractic attention may even reduce your overall medical bills since they can reduce the risk of re-injury or making the injury worse. The length of your treatment can vary. There is no way to predict how long it will take. Some patients only require a few sessions, while others may take a month or even ongoing chiropractic care since whiplash can become chronic. Take care of yourself and don’t let things get potentially worse. Everett Spine & Rehab is here to help find the best treatment for you car accident injury. Please call us to schedule your Everett Chiropractic appointment today: 425-347-8614.

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