| How can chiropractic
help me if I have been in an auto accident?
The most common injury in a car accident
is whiplash, where the neck and head are snapped back and
forth by the impact. This injures the vertebrae of the neck
as well as the muscles and ligaments that support them. Chiropractic
adjustments alleviate the pain by realigning the vertebrae
in the neck.
What do I need to know if I've been
in a car accident?
One of the most stressful aspects of car
accidents is dealing with the problems that arise afterwards?
Not only do you have to deal with your vehicle, but there
can also be hidden injuries that are seldom detected for months
or even years? It is crucial for the injured party to be evaluated
by a Doctor trained in dealing with soft tissue injuires to
ensure that they are properly taken care of and that their
medical needs are met.
Should I see the doctor before I
settle?
Absolutely. Once you settle you will lose
the right for your insurance company to pay for your treatment.
You need to be informed of your rights before you make a decision.
If you are indeed injured, you should get the care you need
to make sure you are back to the way you functioned before
the accident.
What will the insurance company pay for?
The insurance company is only responsible
for injuries sustained from the particular accident you were
in. They are not responsibile for pre-existing conditions
or injuries.
What should I do if I'm not sure I'm that
hurt?
Even if you are simply sore with a minor
ache, you should get checked out immediately. You may experience
pain, numbness, headaches, muscle stiffness, fatigue, and
other problems including arthritis many months down the road.
Nothing is more important than your health!
What is the greatest risk from auto accidents?
Auto accidents can cause post-traumatic osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis can ruin your posture (giving you a slumped
or hump back appearance). Osteoarthritis can cause the discs
in your spine to degenerate and create scar tissue formation
leading to chronic stiffness and the inability to move properly.
Why should I see a
chiropractor?
You need a doctor trained in the biomechanics
of the human body; someone who specializes in these types
of injuries and treats them every day. Also,x-rays can be
taken to discover if there is structural damage. A chirorpractor's
primary responsibility is giving you the care if you need
it, and submitting the required medical reports to the insurance
company so your rights are protected.
Who should
I see first, my attorney or my chiropractor?
It is important to get checked out by the
doctor first. That way the findings from your exam will allow
you the information you need in order to decide if an attorney
is necessary. If necessary, we can refer you to a reputable
and qualified attorney.
Does it matter
if my car only received minor damage?
It is documented that the amount of damage to the vehicle
bears little relation to the force of impact to the cervical
spine and neck of the people in the vehicle. Basically, the
damage to the passengers is not necessarily directly related
to vehicular damage.
If I need treatment
for my injury, am I required to pay for it myself?
No. If the accident was not your fault then
it is extremely rare that the injured party would have to
pay for his own care. Our office provides care "on credit"
when patients are represented by an attorney. Using your own
medical coverage under these circumstances should also not
raise your premiums.
What should
I do if the insurance company wants to settle?
It is best not to sign a settlement until
you have had a full medical evaluation by a specialist. If
you chose to settle before your injury is resolved, it will
be your responsibility to pay out of pocket for your own care.
If I've been to the
hospital and to my medical doctor, do I really need to see
a chiropractor?
Chiropractor's focus on auto injuries because
we deal with trauma to the whole body. While hospitals check
vital signs to ensure there is no life-threatening condition,
they - as well as doctors - will simply release a patient
with pain relief medication. They normally do not treat the
underlying improper musculoskeletal biomechanics, which often
lead to future pain. Pills do not correct structural or soft
tissue damage. You should ALWAYS get a second opinion, particularly
from a specialist.
Does Chiropractic
care hurt?
Absolutely not. It is very gentle and quite
soothing. Please find out more about chiropractic by visiting
our chiropractic information page: HERE.
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