Car accidents can be a traumatic experience for all involved, both mentally and physically. If you’ve ever been a victim or witness to a wreck, then you know that injuries are not uncommon. While some accidents result in major injuries or even fatalities, many victims are lucky enough to walk away from the scene relatively unscathed. These people may be entirely asymptomatic after a car accident, meaning that they don’t display any visible signs of injury or trauma right away.
Unfortunately, long-term injuries can run much deeper. From physical injuries such as whiplash and traumatic brain injury, to physiological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the symptoms may be gradual and subtle. It’s important to monitor your health closely after a car accident. But what should you be on the lookout for? Let’s take a closer look.
- Whiplash occurs when your head is suddenly thrown forwards and backwards, sometimes multiple times in a row. This violent movement can damage the muscles in your neck and shoulders. Common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, loss of range of motion, headaches, and tingling or numbness in your upper extremities.
- Traumatic Brain Injury. Unlike visible cuts and bruises that may occur after an automobile accident, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are more or less invisible. The symptoms, however, are not. You may experience headaches, vertigo, blurry vision, or difficulty concentrating.
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Not surprisingly, accidents can have severe psychological effects as well. PTSD is one of the most common mental ailments suffered by victims after a wreck. The condition can manifest differently among different people, but typical symptoms include insomnia, nightmares, and intense fear or guilt.
Musculoskeletal disorders are fairly common occurrences after an accident, and they can have long-term effects on the victim. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers a safe and effective solution. Spinal manipulation and targeted therapies will help patients recover from trauma such as whiplash, brain injury, and even PTSD. By correcting the alignment of the skeleton, particularly in the spinal region, chiropractors can promote the body’s natural healing properties and alleviate symptoms.
If you’re suffering some of the long-term effects of an automobile injury, consult your local chiropractor. For those in the Greenville area, we welcome you to stop by one of our two locations here at Wirth Chiropractic. Contact us today, and schedule your free consultation!
