Did you know that roughly 7,000 people are injured in car accidents every single day? Injuries range from minor scrapes and bruises to far more serious issues, each affecting body parts differently. Treatment and recovery routines also vary depending on severity of injury and its location on or in the body.

While most every vehicle accident will leave you shaken, injuries might not be apparent at the scene. In fact, you might walk away feeling fine but realize the onset of a significant injury a few days later.

That is why it is important to see a chiropractor within 72 hours after a vehicle accident, especially if you do not see a general physician. It may also be necessary to continue chiropractic care in the weeks and months following in order to address lingering issues with neck, spine, back, and other skeletal issues.

Benefits of Seeing a Chiropractor

Soft-tissue injuries can occur in minor fender benders as well as more dramatic crashes. It is critical to identify these injuries as soon as possible but it can be very difficult to do so on your own. This is due to spikes in adrenaline that disguise the pain and even minor injuries can turn into severe problems and chronic pain if left untreated.

For example, a chiropractor can tell if your spine is out of alignment or recognize the physical signs of whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.

Reduce inflammation

X-ray exams cannot reveal all types of injuries but that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Microscopic tears in soft tissue like muscles and ligaments are common after accidents and can cause a great deal of pain. Chiropractic adjustments help release the body’s anti-inflammatory cytokines to help your body heal.

Reduced inflammation also improves range of motion and the flow of blood and nutrients throughout the body.

Relieve stress

Car accidents inspire psychological stress as well as physical, both of which affect your body and can cause pain. Chiropractic adjustment releases hormones that naturally relieve pain and eliminate the need for painkillers, which often address only the symptom of an injury and not the source.

See a chiropractor to avoid future surgeries

Many minor injuries fortunately remain as such and can be effectively treated with chiropractic care. Left unchecked, however, little problems can become much more significant and may require painful and invasive surgery in the future.

Prevent scar tissue

Damaged muscles often form scar tissue and while this is a natural way of healing, it is often painful and leaves you feeling very stiff. Chiro adjustments help break up scar tissue and promote speedier healing.