Auto accident injuries should never be taken lightly, even at a low rate speed (I.E. 5-10 MPH) can case seemingly minor symptoms which may have lasting issues, especially if not effectively treated. 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries can often involve sprains, strains, and bruising   Motor vehicle accident victims should be aware of the symptoms associated with soft tissue injuries so that they can receive medical treatment if they sustain an injury of this nature. Soft tissue injuries victims may include neck pain, jaw pain, or pain in the shoulders, arm pain, back pain, or leg pain.  Sometimes people may experience blurry vision, vertigo, nausea, headaches, or concussions.   Some accident victims can continue to feel pain weeks, months, or even years after the injury if left untreated.   As a result of the injury, if left untreated scar tissue can form which can affect joint mobility and irritate the nerves.  Long term effects can include degenerative joint disease which is narrowing of the space between the disc or spinal vertebrae.

Whiplash

Front and rear-end collisions can often cause whiplash, (a hyperflexion and hyperextension injury). This condition occurs when the neck is “whipped” back and forth with a significant amount of force. The injury can even occur at low speeds as low as 5-10 MPH, whiplash can cause misalignments in your cervical spine which can cause pain and stiffness.  Other symptoms can be pain in the shoulders and arms, headaches, and also diminished range of motion. The vast majority of whiplash sufferers can have misaligned cervical vertebrae which can cause joint, ligament, tendon, muscle and disc, or nerve, irritation or damage.  After whiplash injury occurs a chiropractor will work on reducing neck pain and inflammation, by using gentle stretching and manual therapy techniques and may advise to apply an ice pack to the neck or apply Biofreeze. Chiropractic adjustments will help restore normal motion to your neck and reduce irritation on the muscle joints and nerves.   If left untreated, in some cases whiplash effects can last for months or even years and can result in permanent damage such as degenerate joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis.  

Low Back Pain

Injuries can also occur to the low back just like the neck in motor vehicle accidents. Seatbelt injuries can also occur and cause trauma to the low back. In a front-end collision, the upper body continues on for a split second but the seatbelt locks and keeps the lower body in place which can cause low back injuries. Symptoms vary, some people may experience lower back pain, numbness, and tingling radiating down one or both legs. A chiropractor can help with low back pain and injuries with the same approach as neck injury and treatment.

If you’re feeling the effects of an auto accident injury in Elizabethtown, KY, Heartland Family Chiropractic, PLLC is here to lend a hand. Led by Adam T. Fulkerson, D.C., this clinic is equipped to diagnose and treat a range of injuries, including those stemming from car crashes. If you suffer from back or neck pain, they will boost spinal function, release pressure on the nerves, and help you prevent future issues. Schedule an evaluation today by calling (270) 234-8880. You can also visit the website for more information on what chiropractic care can do for you.