What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic care is a health care profession that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and how those affect the nervous system and general health. Chiropractic has an emphasis on manual therapy treatments, including spinal adjustment and joint and soft-tissue manipulation.
More generally, chiropractors will make adjustments of the body to improve joint motion and function.
What do chiropractors do?
If you’ve been in an accident and go to the chiropractor, you will typically first fill out some intake forms explaining the nature of the accident, where you’re experiencing pain, symptoms, and some other general questions about how your injuries are affecting your daily activities or work.
From there, your chiropractor will do a patient assessment, take x-rays, get a detailed health history, perform an examination, do tests, and develop a working diagnosis. They then develop a plan for treatment and will monitor progress.
Treatment methods by chiropractors are usually done by hand and with a gentle thrust. These will range from stretching and sustained pressure to specific joint manipulations. Manipulations are commonly done to the spine, but other parts of the body may be treated like this as well. The purpose of these is to align the body, improve joint motion and function, and to allow the body to naturally heal.
Additionally, chiropractors may use different treatment modalities to aid in the healing process like ice, heat, ultrasound, and electronic stimulation in conjunction with the manipulations. They may also recommend complementary alternative medicine therapies like massage and acupuncture to help you heal faster.
When should I see a chiropractor?
If you’re injured in an accident, we always recommend seeking immediate medical care. This is important not only for your overall health but to also document and maximizes your car accident or personal injury claim .
The first doctor you see will probably be in the emergency room, urgent care, or a general practitioner. Some people, however, will go to the chiropractor right away because that’s just what they’ve heard they’re supposed to do.
Because the facts and circumstances of every case are different, there is no hard and fast rule as to when you should see a chiropractor. Typically, a chiropractor will be involved in the rehabilitation phase, similar to a physical therapist . This means that any necessary surgeries have been completed, broken bones healed, and the “worst” is over. Chiropractors are usually seen when there is a soft-tissue injury like whiplash from a rear-end car accident.
Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be beneficial for back pain.
How do I find a chiropractor?
Your doctor or personal injury attorney may have recommendations for chiropractors in your area. You can also go to the American Chiropractic Association “Find Your ACA Doctor” and search there. We recommend finding someone who is experienced in handling your type of injuries and is familiar with car accidents or personal injuries. This will assure you receive the best and proper care.
Sacramento Car Accident Attorney
If you were injured by the negligence of another in a car accident, you may be wondering if you should see a chiropractor and if that care is covered. We can help. Our aim is to take the intimidation and myth away from hiring a personal injury lawyer.
My name is Dan Hanecak, Sacramento car accident lawyer. And when you call my firm, I will personally answer the phone to discuss your case with you. I will give you an honest opinion of your case and free advice. Call today to discuss your case at (916) 619-5452 or fill out the form online and I will follow up.
