CAR ACCIDENT CHIROPRACTOR NEAR YOU IN CHARLOTTE
A car accident, no matter how minor it may seem at first, can lead to injuries that may not show up right away. You might think you’re fine, only to experience debilitating pain weeks or even months later. Injuries from a car accident, especially those to your spine and muscles, often go unnoticed in the immediate aftermath, making it essential to seek chiropractic care early.
At Proactive Chiropractic in Charlotte, we specialize in treating car accident injuries using a natural, non-invasive approach. We understand that even seemingly small accidents can result in serious injuries such as whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal misalignment, which may not be detected through standard medical exams like X-rays.
Our chiropractic care helps your body recover by addressing the root causes of pain and injury. With tailored treatment plans designed specifically for you, we work to relieve pain, restore mobility, and ensure a full recovery, helping you get back to a pain-free life as quickly as possible, after a car accident in Charlotte.
I’VE BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT; WHAT HAPPENS NOW?
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel unsure about what to do next. After the initial shock and ensuring everyone’s safety, here are steps you can take to protect your health and legal rights:
- Stay Calm: While it’s tough, remaining calm is crucial in managing your injuries and the situation effectively.
- Get Medical Help: Call 911 for immediate medical attention if needed. Even if you feel okay, it’s vital to get checked out by a professional.
- File an Insurance Claim: Once stable, contact your insurance company. We can assist you with this process, ensuring you know what information is necessary.
- See a Chiropractor in Charlotte: Make an appointment with a chiropractor right after the accident, even if you don’t feel injured. Chiropractors can help identify issues such as misalignments, whiplash, or herniated discs that may not be immediately noticeable.
- Consult a Lawyer: If necessary, seek legal advice to understand if you have a personal injury case. We can connect you with experienced lawyers who can help.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
Even if you feel fine after a collision, it’s important to seek medical or chiropractic care as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask injuries like whiplash, spinal misalignments, herniated discs, or soft tissue damage, which may not show symptoms for hours or days. Early evaluation ensures proper diagnosis, treatment, and documentation, reducing the risk of chronic pain and long-term complications.
An experienced car accident chiropractor can detect misalignments, nerve pressure, and musculoskeletal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent, providing targeted treatment to support faster recovery. You do not need a referral to see a chiropractor in North Carolina, and scheduling an appointment promptly after an accident helps protect both your health and your insurance claim.
Seek immediate care if you experience:
- Headache, dizziness, or confusion
- Neck or back pain
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
- Abdominal or chest pain
- Severe bruising, swelling, or reduced mobility
At Proactive Chiropractic in Charlotte, we provide thorough exams, imaging when needed, and early intervention for injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, or spinal misalignments to ensure the best possible recovery.
HOW A CAR ACCIDENT CHIROPRACTOR NEAR YOU CAN HELP
Chiropractic care is a highly effective, non-invasive method for treating injuries sustained in car accidents. Should I get an alignment after a car accident? Many patients benefit from chiropractic adjustments to restore proper alignment, alleviate pain, and support the healing process. Unlike conventional treatments that often rely on medication or surgery, chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, including spinal alignment and muscle health.
Treatment helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent long-term issues that could lead to chronic discomfort. At Proactive Chiropractic in Charlotte, we ensure that your treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, helping you recover naturally and at your own pace.
COMMON INJURIES FROM CAR ACCIDENTS
Car accidents expose the body to sudden, violent forces that can cause injuries even in low-speed collisions. Many symptoms are delayed due to adrenaline, making early evaluation critical. Below are the most common injuries seen after auto accidents.
Common Injuries Include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and Concussions
- Herniated Discs and Spinal Injuries
- Spinal Misalignment and Nerve Compression
- Soft Tissue Injuries and Delayed-Onset Pain
FAQs About Car Accident Injuries
What is whiplash and how does it occur?
Whiplash occurs when the head is rapidly thrown backward and forward, straining the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the neck. It can happen at speeds as low as 5 mph and often causes delayed symptoms.
Common symptoms include: neck pain and stiffness, headaches (especially at the base of the skull), shoulder or upper back pain, and jaw pain (TMJ).
What are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions?
A concussion or mild traumatic brain injury can occur even without a direct blow to the head. The brain moves inside the skull during impact, causing microscopic damage that may not appear on standard imaging.
Common symptoms include: dizziness, nausea, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
What are herniated discs and spinal injuries?
The spine absorbs intense compression and twisting forces during a crash, which can cause spinal discs to bulge or rupture. Herniated discs may press on nearby nerves, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.
Common symptoms include: low back or neck pain, sciatica, numbness, tingling, weakness, and increased pain with sitting or movement.
What is spinal misalignment and nerve compression?
Even without fractures, the spine can shift out of proper alignment after an accident. These misalignments can irritate or compress nerves, causing pain that radiates into the arms or legs.
Common symptoms include: localized back or neck pain, radiating arm or leg pain, numbness, tingling, and reduced range of motion.
What are soft tissue injuries and why is pain delayed?
Muscles, tendons, and ligaments are frequently overstretched or torn during a collision. Due to adrenaline, pain may not appear for 24–72 hours or longer.
Common symptoms include: stiffness, soreness, inflammation, reduced mobility, and worsening pain days after the accident.
CAN AN AUTO ACCIDENT CHIROPRACTOR NEAR ME HELP WITH WHIPLASH?
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after a car accident, often resulting in neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Chiropractic care is highly effective for treating whiplash. Although symptoms of whiplash can take 24 hours or longer to manifest, it’s important to see a chiropractor as soon as possible after sustaining a whiplash injury, ideally within 72 hours.
Chiropractors focus on realigning the spine, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pressure on the muscles and nerves, helping relieve pain and restore mobility. Specific chiropractic techniques, including spinal adjustments and gentle neck exercises, are designed to target the muscles and joints affected by whiplash, accelerating healing and reducing the risk of long-term pain.
WHIPLASH: THE MOST COMMON INJURY AFTER CAR ACCIDENTS
Whiplash, also known as neck strain, is an injury that occurs most often after car accidents. Most of the time, the symptoms of whiplash do not appear until 24 hours after the accident. However, symptoms may take much longer to appear, sometimes even days or weeks. Symptoms of whiplash may include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Loss of range of motion in your neck
- Tenderness or pain
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
The treatment for whiplash might include various neck exercises that we will help you perform or other non-invasive treatments such as rest and heat or cold. Our auto accident chiropractor will first examine you for any further injury and then provide you with a treatment plan for your unique symptoms and pain.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU LEAVE WHIPLASH UNTREATED?
If left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and long-term mobility issues. The initial inflammation and muscle strain may worsen without proper care, leading to ongoing neck pain, headaches, or even nerve damage. Over time, untreated whiplash can affect your posture and overall spinal health, making recovery more difficult. Early chiropractic treatment helps manage inflammation, restores movement, and prevents long-term complications.
SHOULD YOU GET AN MRI FOR WHIPLASH?
An MRI is not always necessary for diagnosing whiplash as chiropractors are trained to identify whiplash through a combination of physical exams and patient history. In situations where symptoms are severe or persist despite treatment, an MRI can help rule out other injuries. Your chiropractor will assess your symptoms and determine if imaging tests like an MRI are needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Case Study: Whiplash and Herniated Disc Treatment Following a Car Accident Patient
Overview & Initial Findings
A Hispanic male in his 30s came to the clinic after being involved in a high-impact car accident. He was initially concerned about pain and stiffness in his neck, mid-back, and lower back, as well as radiating leg pain. He was limping and reported headaches, dizziness, and nausea as well, which were exacerbated by movement.
Other Observations
- Mild dizziness and nausea, which raised concerns about possible post-traumatic brain injury.
- Difficulty moving freely due to the pain and stiffness in the neck and back.
- Positive neurological findings indicating a possible herniated disc.
Recommended Treatment Plan
Whiplash and Herniated Disc Treatment
Based on the patient’s symptoms and the findings from the examination, it was clear that he had suffered from whiplash and a herniated disc. The treatment plan included:
- Spinal Decompression Therapy: To alleviate pressure on the discs and nerves, particularly targeting the herniated disc in the cervical and lumbar regions.
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To restore proper joint function and reduce pain and inflammation in the neck, back, and shoulders.
- Dry Needling: To help relax the muscles in the affected areas and promote healing.
- Electrical Therapy: To reduce inflammation and provide relief from nerve pain and muscle tension.
Rehabilitation and Preventive Care
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: These were prescribed to help stabilize the spine and prevent further injury as part of a rehabilitation plan.
- At-home Care: The patient was advised to rest, apply ice to the affected areas, and avoid activities that could strain the back and neck.
Completed Procedures
- Conducted a thorough examination, including X-rays of the cervical and lumbar spine to assess the extent of the herniated disc and rule out fractures.
- Provided an estimate for the treatments, which included spinal decompression therapy, adjustments, and dry needling.
Preventive Care Plan
- Scheduled follow-up visits for spinal decompression and chiropractic adjustments over the course of six weeks, gradually reducing frequency as the patient’s condition improved.
- Recommended bi-weekly adjustments to maintain spinal health and prevent chronic pain from arising.
Reflections & Closing Thoughts
The patient responded well to the spinal decompression therapy and chiropractic adjustments. After 20 visits, he reported significant improvements, with pain levels dropping from an 8/10 to 1/10. He also experienced improved mobility and reduced headaches. His case highlights the importance of early intervention to prevent long-term chronic pain from unresolved injuries caused by car accidents. By integrating spinal decompression, adjustments, and rehabilitation, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive solution for recovery, ensuring both immediate relief and lasting improvements.
Case Study: Post-Traumatic Headaches After Car Accident Patient
Overview & Initial Findings
A female patient in her 50s presented with chronic headaches, neck pain, and dizziness that had persisted for several weeks after a car accident. She had been initially reluctant to seek treatment but finally visited the clinic after the symptoms became more bothersome.
Other Observations
- Pain was localized to the upper neck and referred to the head, consistent with post-traumatic headaches.
- A decreased range of motion in the neck and tenderness in the upper cervical region.
Recommended Treatment Plan
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To address misalignments in the cervical spine that were contributing to the headaches.
- Dry Needling: Applied to the upper neck and shoulder muscles to release tension and improve blood flow.
- Rehabilitative Exercises: To strengthen the neck muscles and prevent further strain on the cervical spine.
- Stretching and Relaxation Techniques: To reduce muscle stiffness and improve overall mobility.
Completed Procedures
- A detailed examination was performed, including a cervical spine assessment and neurological tests to rule out other causes of dizziness.
- The patient underwent chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, and neck strengthening exercises.
Preventive Care Plan
- Regular chiropractic care every month to maintain alignment and prevent the recurrence of headaches.
- Encouraged daily stretching and posture corrections to avoid additional strain on the neck.
Reflections & Closing Thoughts
The patient responded well to chiropractic adjustments and dry needling. After 20 sessions, her headaches were significantly reduced, and she reported an improved quality of life. She was able to resume normal activities without the constant headache pain. This case demonstrates the value of chiropractic care in addressing post-traumatic headaches and neck pain. Early intervention with adjustments, dry needling, and strengthening exercises helped restore the patient’s comfort and mobility, allowing her to enjoy a pain-free life.
Case Study: Shoulder Pain After Car Accident Patient
Overview & Initial Findings
A patient in her 40s came in with complaints of shoulder pain following a car accident. The injury occurred when she was jolted by the impact while gripping the steering wheel.
Other Observations
- No fractures but possible soft tissue damage, including strains to the rotator cuff.
- Pain also radiated from the shoulder to the neck, suggesting a possible referral from cervical nerve roots.
Recommended Treatment Plan
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To ensure proper alignment and reduce any pressure on the cervical and shoulder joints.
- Dry Needling: Applied to the shoulder and upper back muscles to release tightness.
- Rehabilitative Exercises: Focused on strengthening the rotator cuff and improving the shoulder’s range of motion.
- Electrical Therapy: Used to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms in the shoulder area.
Completed Procedures
- Full assessment including orthopedic evaluation to determine the extent of the soft tissue injury.
- Chiropractic care and therapeutic exercises were administered to restore shoulder function.
Preventive Care Plan
- Bi-weekly chiropractic visits for continued shoulder care.
- Ongoing exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and avoid future injuries.
Reflections & Closing Thoughts
After 15 visits, the patient experienced a significant reduction in pain and regained full mobility in the shoulder. Chiropractic care, combined with dry needling and exercise therapy, helped address both the cause and symptoms of the injury. This case emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes both spinal alignment and soft tissue rehabilitation to address shoulder injuries and prevent future pain.
DOES INSURANCE COVER CHIROPRACTIC CARE AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
If you’re injured in a car accident and the other driver is at fault, their insurance typically covers the cost of your chiropractic treatment.
If you don’t have a lawyer for your car accident claim, we’ll work directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and send the bills after your treatment, so you don’t pay a dime. If you do have a lawyer, they’ll handle the negotiation and send a demand package to the insurance company on your behalf once your treatment is completed.
Some people avoid hiring a lawyer because they think they can negotiate better on their own, but the process can be much easier and more efficient with legal representation.
In cases where you must pay out-of-pocket (such as due to a high deductible or lack of insurance coverage), many chiropractic offices offer flexible payment plans or may delay billing until your case is settled.
HOW MUCH ARE MOST CAR ACCIDENT SETTLEMENTS?
The amount of a car accident settlement can vary depending on the severity of the injuries, the insurance coverage available, and the circumstances of the accident. Minor injuries typically result in settlements ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, while more serious injuries could lead to settlements of $50,000 or more. Chiropractors can contribute to higher settlements by documenting the extent of your injuries, providing detailed records of your treatment progress, and helping demonstrate the need for ongoing care. It’s important to talk to your legal counsel to see how much your case settlement is worth.
HOW MANY CHIROPRACTIC VISITS ARE TYPICALLY NEEDED AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
The number of visits to a nearby auto accident chiropractor that are required after a car accident varies depending on the severity of your injuries. Typically, patients need anywhere from 15 to 20 visits. Initially, you may see your chiropractor several times per week, but this frequency usually decreases as you progress through your recovery. Your auto accident chiropractor will create a customized treatment plan that adjusts based on your specific condition.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR YOUR BACK AND BODY TO HEAL AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury, but many car accident injuries, such as whiplash or spinal misalignments, can take several weeks to a few months to heal. Chiropractic care helps speed up the recovery process by addressing the root causes of pain and restoring proper function.
WHY AN AUTO ACCIDENT CHIROPRACTOR NEAR YOU IS ESSENTIAL
Chiropractic care is particularly beneficial for car accident injuries, especially those involving the spine, neck, and muscles. Chiropractors specialize in non-invasive treatments, such as spinal adjustments and therapeutic exercises, which help restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote long-term healing. Their education and training in musculoskeletal health allow them to treat these injuries with precision, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes for better recovery outcomes.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE VS. PHYSICAL THERAPY
When it comes to treating car accident injuries, you might wonder whether chiropractic care or physical therapy is better. Both have their benefits, but chiropractic care offers specialized treatment for spinal misalignments, muscle tension, and pain relief. Physical therapy focuses more on rehabilitation and exercises, whereas chiropractic care restores spinal alignment, which is crucial for healing after an accident.
At Proactive Chiropractic in Charlotte, we offer a combination of chiropractic care and therapeutic exercises to provide a fully customized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
WHAT IS BETTER FOR BACK PAIN, MASSAGE OR CHIROPRACTOR?
While massage therapy can help with muscle tension and provide temporary relief, chiropractic care is often more effective for addressing the underlying causes of back pain, particularly spinal misalignments, herniated discs, and nerve compression. Chiropractors are highly trained to evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on spinal alignment and the nervous system, which can lead to more lasting relief than massage alone.
SEARCHING FOR A CAR ACCIDENT CHIROPRACTOR NEAR YOU IN CHARLOTTE?
We understand how overwhelming it can be after an accident, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the recovery process. Whether you’re experiencing immediate pain or dealing with hidden injuries that have only shown up days later, we can help you get back to a pain-free life in Charlotte, NC.
We are dedicated to providing personalized chiropractic care near you! Whether you are located in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, you can count on us to offer effective treatment plans that restore your health and mobility, and help you get back to feeling like yourself again. If you’re looking for a chiropractor near you, contact Proactive Chiropractic today!
Give us a call at (704) 741-9158 or contact us online to schedule your consultation and find out why we are the trusted choice for a chiropractor near you in Charlotte, North Carolina.
