When you are in an auto accident, it can result in a variety of injuries that may not be obvious to the naked eye. You may have some bruising, but when it comes to things like whiplash, there are no visible signs. In the aftermath of your accident, you need to call your insurance company, the police, and your chiropractor. Your auto injuries can be addressed by Dr. Mason Sheehan at Richmond Spine & Rehab in Midlothian, VA.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common types of auto injury, especially when there is a rear end collision. The impact of another vehicle causes the head to snap back and forth. The average head weighs about 11 pounds, which is comparable to a bowling ball sitting on the top of a rather thin and fragile neck. It can cause quite a lot of damage to both the soft tissues and the vertebrae.
After an initial examination, your chiropractor may give you a spinal adjustment to make sure all the vertebrae are back in alignment and allow the body to get started on the healing process. This may be followed by a massage, which will help to relax the body. A massage helps the spinal adjustment to work better. By adding ice and heat, the pain in the neck can be reduced at home between visits. Another big piece of the treatment plan is functional exercises.
Shoulder pain
Seatbelts and airbags can save your life, but unfortunately, while doing that, they can also cause some damage to your shoulders and back. You may find yourself dealing with a lot of pain after an accident due to auto injuries. Rotator cuff injuries are not uncommon, but even if it is just the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that have been stretched, it can be very uncomfortable. An adjustment of the shoulder joint may be necessary and the use of massage on the shoulder can also help you to be more comfortable. Again, ice and heat can help to keep the pain under control.
Back pain
Back pain from an auto accident may be related to muscle damage, in which case it may respond well to electrical stimulation therapy, shockwave therapy, or laser therapy. All of these therapies can cause faster healing and help with pain by stimulating the release of endorphins. If the disc has been damaged, spinal decompression can help pull the disc back between the vertebrae.
Contact Dr. Mason Sheehan at Richmond Spine & Rehab in Midlothian, VA, when you need chiropractic care for your Auto Injuries. Give our office a call at 804-592-2225 to make an appointment today.