Car accidents can happen within the blink of an eye. We’re unable to see them happening and so unable to react to them in the most appropriate way. It takes just a second for a car to make it’s impact and whilst this happens the body goes through a rather varied series of reactions effecting the way your body works. During the second or two before you realise what has actually happened, your body already has a fear response underway. Your body makes changes such as dilated pupils, tightened muscles and your breathing may become faster and more rapid as your glands start to release a stress hormone.

Each car crash is different. You may have a minor crash or a larger crash. Each one has a number of different outcomes. Many things rely on how your body responds in this situation such as the type of vehicle, it’s position and the speed of which it’s traveling. In some cases the vehicle may come to a sudden stop whilst the body still continues to travel at the original speed of the car. This can cause internal organs to slam back against the skeletal system. You may not initially feel pain, it may be days before you realise that you have hurt yourself.

What is whiplash?

Injuries that affect the soft tissue are usually the most delayed injuries. One that occurs most frequently is whiplash. Whiplash refers to soft tissue injuries in the neck, caused when the head is forced quickly from one side to another during the impact of a car crash. The symptoms can include neck stiffness, back pain and cognitive problems. These can appear gradually over a few days and if left untreated can lead to chronic back and neck pain. Other soft tissue injuries can consist of sprains, strains and contusions. These symptoms can consist of stiffness, bruising and swelling.

How can chiropractic care help?

It’s advisable to seek medical attention quickly as a lot of soft issue injuries appear gradually. You may not be in a large amount of pain to begin with but the likelihood is that it’s lingering and so making an appointment with a chiropractor as soon as possible will help minimise the pain. It’ll also help to prevent further damage. The treatment and diagnosis can be difficult to diagnose especially if seeking medical help from a doctor. Your best option would be to visit a chiropractor, not only can evaluate the extent of the injury but they can pinpoint exactly what the source is and provide non-surgical treatment to nurture you back to your full potential. Chiropractors can help with using the following methods:

• Manipulation of the spine
• Massage therapy
• Electro-stimulation
• Stretching exercises
• Strength exercises

Why not get in touch via our contact page to book yourself in for an initial consultation?

Please visit our contact page for location details, opening hours and telephone number. The Health & Vitality Centre is based in Welwyn Garden City and our team look forward to meeting you there!