There are several benefits that a chiropractor residents recommend can offer to patients. Whether you were recently injured, are managing symptoms associated with illness, or suffer from chronic pain, chances are the impact of pain and other symptoms have changed the way you live your life. A chiropractor can offer treatments in tandem with traditional forms of care to assist patients in receiving the holistic care they deserve when they need it the most. Working with professionals like those from Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can play an integral role in treating conditions like whiplash, which can occur in various ways. With chiropractic treatments, chiropractors can help to manage symptoms and support the body in healing.
Understanding Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury that impacts the neck, which can occur in several ways. Whiplash is when the head and neck are whipped back and forth rapidly, causing severe damage. Typically the neck and shoulders are the areas of the body that are largely impacted. Symptoms associated with whiplash can be excruciating and include:
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Neck Pain
Headaches
Shoulder Pain
Neck Pain
Numbness in the Extremities
Limited Range of Motion
There are several reasons whiplash may occur, which are largely attributed to experiencing trauma from rear-end car accidents, sports injuries, physical abuse, slips and falls, etc. Whiplash can be impactful for victims, and it will be essential to seek treatment and take steps toward managing pain.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractors are trained professionals who provide treatments to the musculoskeletal system. Through massage, adjustments, heat/cold therapies, STEM treatments, and prescribed exercise, a chiropractor can treat whiplash by administering treatments aimed at managing symptoms and adjustments to realign the body and encourage its own healing properties to repair the musculoskeletal system. When a chiropractor successfully realigns the spine, patients can experience a significant reduction in pain and improved outcomes to heal from whiplash and other disorders, illnesses, or injuries.
The First Appointment
Most people may be apprehensive over what to expect at their first chiropractic appointment, and understanding what the appointment and treatments will be like can help offer peace of mind in knowing what comes next. During the first appointment, plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete all of the necessary paperwork and gain an understanding of insurance coverage. It’s best to come wearing loose and comfortable clothing. Women should refrain from wearing dresses or skirts to ensure they feel as comfortable as possible should an adjustment be administered. During the appointment, a chiropractor will ask specific questions about medical history and any injuries experienced. It may even be recommended that you bring any medical records that include past x-rays or MRIs that were taken. Sometimes, the chiropractor may even request that their patients have x-ray imaging done so that they can administer the best treatment possible. After understanding medical history and physical ailments clearly, a chiropractor will likely conduct an exam to test for range of motion and muscle strength. Depending upon the patient’s condition, a chiropractor may begin treatment by administering a series of chiropractic adjustments. From there, they will develop a customized care plan for their patients.
