Don’t wait to seek help. A “wait and see” approach to dealing with spinal injuries such as whiplash can be dangerous. Consult your doctor of chiropractic to have a spinal checkup whenever you have suffered a whiplash injury. No matter how minor the accident, spinal damage should be ruled out to protect your long-term health. If you have suffered whiplash, a chiropractic checkup can tell you the extent of your spinal injury and determine what care will help realign your spinal column.
What is your chiropractic program? Treatment varies according to the severity of your condition. With most patients, a series of adjustments is needed. During an adjustment, precisely directed force is applied to a spinal joint that is out of position or not moving properly. Spinal adjustments restore balance to the spine, helping to relieve pain and stiffness. In some cases, other therapies are also used for whiplash to help relax or strengthen muscles or reduce swelling. These include ultrasound, ice and heat therapy, traction, or trigger point therapy. And treatment often works best when combined with a self-care program of exercise and good posture. Your chiropractor will likely recommend exercises for you to do. Lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications and reduction of stress may also be suggested.
What You Can Do
In the beginning, frequent chiropractic visits may be necessary to help relieve your symptoms. It’s not unusual to have some relief immediately after your first adjustment. However, one adjustment can’t cure a severe problem, just as a single pill from a prescription can’t cure an illness. So, be patient. Give your treatment program time to work and yourself time to heal.
Make a commitment to your own recovery by following your doctor’s prescribed treatment program. Most importantly, keep all of your scheduled appointments. Even after your symptoms ease, regular treatment is needed for more complete healing. Discontinuing treatment prematurely only delays and prevents full recovery.
For more information contact Advanced Healthcare in Stevenson Ranch at 661-799-0777 or Palmdale at 661-273-1101. You can also visit them online at www.chiro4all.com .