Auto Accident / Whiplash Care at Elizabethtown
Understanding Whiplash
Whiplash is a common neck injury resulting from car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. When the head is suddenly forced backward and then forward, it causes strain on the neck’s muscles, ligaments, and joints. This abrupt motion can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. At Commonwealth Family Chiropractic in Elizabethtown, Dr. Paul Eriksen specializes in diagnosing and treating whiplash to help patients recover quickly and effectively.
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Symptoms of Whiplash
The symptoms of whiplash may not always appear immediately after an accident. Common signs include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
- Shoulder and upper back pain
- Reduced range of motion in the neck
- Dizziness or fatigue
If left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications. Early intervention is essential for optimal recovery.
The Impact of Auto Accidents on Your Body
Whether you’ve been in a minor fender bender or a major collision, your car’s not the only thing that took a beating. Even if it looks like your car hasn’t sustained any damage, your body might have. Modern cars are designed to withstand significant force without deformation—but the force of the impact is still absorbed by your body and can cause substantial soft-tissue damage, even at low speeds.
How Whiplash Is Diagnosed
Dr. Eriksen takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing whiplash. During your visit, he will:
- Evaluate your spine to identify areas of restricted movement or muscle tension
- Assess your neck’s range of motion and any associated pain
- Check for muscle spasms, tenderness, and overall spinal alignment
- Discuss your medical history and the details of your accident to better understand your condition
This thorough evaluation ensures that any underlying issues contributing to your discomfort are addressed.
Chiropractic Treatment for Auto Accident Injuries
At Commonwealth Family Chiropractic, Dr. Eriksen employs a variety of techniques to alleviate pain and promote healing. Treatment plans are customized based on the severity of your injury and your individual needs. Typical treatments include:
- Gentle Spinal Adjustments: These help restore proper alignment to the neck and spine, reducing nerve irritation and improving mobility.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like therapeutic massage and stretching are used to relieve muscle tension and enhance flexibility.
- Cold Therapy: Ice applications help reduce inflammation and swelling in the acute phase of injury.
- Rehabilitation Exercises: Targeted exercises strengthen neck muscles and improve posture, helping to prevent future injuries.
Why Early Care Is Crucial
In a whiplash injury, the alignment of your neck is often altered by the snapping motion caused by the impact. If not corrected through chiropractic adjustments, the surrounding muscles may heal in this improper alignment, potentially leading to long-term degeneration and arthritic changes. Seeking care promptly after an accident can prevent these complications and help restore normal spinal function.
Comprehensive Auto Accident Care
Dr. Eriksen’s approach goes beyond symptom relief. He focuses on restoring proper function and biomechanics to ensure you heal as normally as possible and reduce the risk of future arthritis. If fractures or other complications are detected, he will refer you to the appropriate specialists. Commonwealth Family Chiropractic also collaborates with orthopedists, neurologists, pain management providers, massage therapists, and physical therapists to offer comprehensive care.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t wait to seek care. The sooner spinal function is restored, the easier it is to re-educate the muscles to maintain proper alignment. For your convenience, we accept and file automobile accident insurance at no fee to patients. Contact Commonwealth Family Chiropractic in Elizabethtown today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Paul Eriksen. Our team is ready to guide you on your journey to recovery.
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