Headaches After Car Accident - How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Accident care chiropractors specialize in car accident headache treatments and recovery. Learn how a chiropractor can help.

If you've been in a car accident, you may wonder if you should see a chiropractor. The answer depends on several factors, including your injuries' severity, pain level, and overall health.

If you were in a minor car accident, your headaches might be due to whiplash or other neck injuries. A chiropractor can treat these through adjustments and other hands-on therapies. If your headaches are more severe, they may be due to a concussion or other head injury. In this case, you should see a medical doctor for diagnosis and treatment. However, a chiropractor can help alleviate your symptoms and speed up your recovery.

Common Causes of Headaches After a Car Accident 

One of the most common complaints following a car accident is headaches. If you've been in a car accident and are suffering from headaches, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. 

Here are some of the most common causes of headaches after a car accident.

• Whiplash is one of the most common injuries following a car accident. It occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jolted forward and then back again, causing the ligaments and muscles in the neck to stretch or tear, leading to pain and inflammation. Whiplash can also cause headaches, as well as dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you think you may have whiplash, see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

• A concussion is another common injury following a car accident. It is a type of brain injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jolted or hit. Concussions can cause various symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty concentrating. See a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment if you think you may have a concussion.

• Stress is another common cause of headaches after a car accident. If you're feeling stressed after an accident, finding ways to relax and de-stress is essential. These can include exercise, deep breathing, and yoga. You may also want to consider talking to a counselor or therapist to help you deal with the stress of the accident.

Symptoms of Post-Accident Headaches 

Headaches are one of the most common symptoms reported by people who have been in a car accident. While some people may only experience occasional headaches, others may suffer from chronic headaches that can last for months or even years.

You can experience several types of headaches after a car accident. The most common is a tension headache. Tension headaches are often described as feeling like there is a band of tightness around the head. These headaches are usually not severe, and you can take over-the-counter medication to treat them.

Migraine headaches are another type of headache experienced after a car accident. Migraine headaches are much more severe than tension headaches and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and light and sound sensitivity. Migraine headaches can be very debilitating and may require prescription medication to treat.

Cluster headaches are also experienced after a car accident. Cluster headaches are less common than tension headaches and migraines, but they can be just as severe. These headaches are often described as a sharp, throbbing pain on one side of the head and can last for weeks or even months, and may require prescription medication to treat.

How Chiropractors Treat Headaches 

Chiropractors use various techniques to treat headaches. One of the most common is spinal manipulation, which involves using gentle pressure and movements to realign the spine. This treatment can help relieve stress on the nerves and muscles that can cause headaches. Chiropractors may also use other therapies such as massage, acupuncture, or electrical stimulation.

Why You Should Consider Chiropractic Care for Post-Accident Headache Treatment 

There are several reasons to consider chiropractic care after an accident, especially when you’ve suffered a head injury. For example:

Chiropractic Care Is a Non-invasive Drug-Free Alternative 

While some situations may call for pain medication, it is not always necessary. Chiropractic care effectively relieves some discomfort, bringing pain relief without the risk of addiction.

Accident Care Chiropractors Specialize in Post-Accident Treatment and Recovery 

When you work with a chiropractor specializing in post-accident treatment and recovery, you can be sure you’ll get the care you need to get back to your life with less pain.

Who Pays for Chiropractic Care After a Car Accident? 

Typically, insurance companies cover the cost of chiropractic care after a car accident. However, there may be some instances where you will need to pay out of pocket.

How a Chiropractor Can Help with Your Medical Insurance Claims 

A chiropractor can help patients with medical insurance claims in several ways. First, they can provide documentation of the patient's condition and provide a treatment plan. Officials can use this documentation to support a claim for reimbursement from an insurance company. 

A chiropractor can also work with the insurance company to negotiate a fair reimbursement rate for the services and provide testimony or another expert opinion if the insurance company denies the claim.

Conclusion 

If you decide to see a chiropractor after an accident, they will likely perform a physical examination and take X-rays to assess your injuries. They may also recommend other therapies, such as massage or physiotherapy, to help you recover.

If you're considering seeing a chiropractor after a car accident, consult your doctor first to ensure that it's the best decision for your health.

Dr. Eric Neumann D.C.

Dr. Eric Neumann grew up in Alberta, Canada where he majored in Chemistry at the University of Calgary. During his time at University, he obtained licensure as a Massage Therapist. It was clear that hands-on healing would be his calling. After suffering multiple sport-related injuries he became interested in Chiropractic. Dr. Neumann graduated from Western States Chiropractic College in 2009. He has since specialized in the treatment and management of acute spinal injuries.