November brings shorter days, more rain and busier roads around Abbotsford, and with them more rear end collisions on Highway 1, Mt Lehman Road and Gladwin Road. Even a low speed crash can leave you with neck pain and stiffness that shows up hours or days later. At our Clearbrook clinic I treat a lot of whiplash injuries, and this article explains what to watch for and how chiropractic care fits into recovery.
What Whiplash Is
Whiplash happens when the head is thrown quickly backward and forward, straining the muscles, ligaments and joints of the neck. It is most common in rear end collisions but can happen in any crash. Symptoms often take a day or two to appear, which is why many people feel fine at the scene and sore the next morning.
Common Symptoms
Typical symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, reduced ability to turn your head, headaches starting at the base of the skull, pain across the shoulders and upper back, and tiredness. Some people also notice dizziness or difficulty concentrating, which should be mentioned to your doctor because it can overlap with concussion.
Get Checked First
After any crash, see a doctor or go to emergency if you have severe neck pain, numbness or weakness in the arms, a severe headache, confusion, or if you lost consciousness. Once serious injury has been ruled out, early, gentle treatment and staying active usually lead to a better recovery than wearing a collar or resting for long periods.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Treatment starts gently and progresses as your neck settles. I work a lot on the soft tissues, using techniques such as cupping, pin and stretch, and massage, and I mobilise or adjust stiff joints in the neck and upper back. Whether I use manual adjustments or gentler mobilisation depends on your symptoms and your preference, and that is always discussed first. Home exercises to restore neck movement and strength are part of every plan.
ICBC Coverage for Chiropractic Care
If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident in BC, chiropractic treatment may be covered under your ICBC claim, and you do not need a doctor's referral to start. Report your claim to ICBC as soon as you can and bring your claim number to your first visit. Our front desk can help with the paperwork and direct billing.
A Note from Your Chiropractor
Do not wait to see whether neck pain after a crash goes away on its own. Starting care early, once you have been medically checked, makes it easier to keep your neck moving and avoid the stiffness that can drag recovery out for months.
Dr. Alex Sattar, Chiropractor, Revive Rehab Abbotsford Clearbrook
Reference Sources: Information on chiropractic practice in British Columbia is drawn from the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC (CCHPBC) and the British Columbia Chiropractic Association. ICBC claim information is drawn from ICBC.
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