Brain Trauma and Auto Injury Treatment: How Chiropractic Can Help
Any car accident—including those that occur at low speeds—has the potential to cause devastating injuries. Often, the full effects of these injuries aren’t seen right away. Whiplash in particular can cause delayed symptoms, and the symptoms of brain trauma might not be immediately apparent. Even if you think you haven’t been seriously injured in a crash, it’s important to seek auto injury treatment right away. Northgate Chiropractic Clinic offers walk-in appointments for your convenience. In addition, Dr. Todd Buchanan, D.C. is certified in the treatment of whiplash and its resulting brain trauma.
The Causes and Effects of Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common types of auto accident injuries. It’s particularly common among patients who were involved in rear-end car collisions. This soft tissue injury occurs when the head is abruptly forced backward and then forward. These abrupt, forceful movements cause the soft tissues of the neck to become stretched beyond their capacity. The ligaments, tendons, nerves, and muscles can all sustain damage, and sometimes the neck vertebrae and intervertebral disks (cushions between the bones) can also sustain damage.
It’s common for the symptoms of whiplash to develop within a few days of the accident—not immediately after it. Neck pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion are the most common symptoms. However, whiplash can also result in the following:
- Headaches, starting at the base of the skull
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Numbness and tingling in the arms
- Pain in the shoulders, arms, and upper back
Severe cases of whiplash can result in other symptoms as well, including blurry vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), irritability, depression, and sleep disturbances. It’s possible for whiplash to turn into a chronic (long-term) medical problem. However, patients who seek chiropractic care right away at Northgate Chiropractic Clinic are more likely to enjoy a full recovery.
Brain Trauma Resulting from Whiplash
Scientific evidence demonstrates that the symptoms of whiplash are not the only ones that car accident victims have to worry about. Indeed, whiplash can result in a brain injury, such as a concussion. One study found that the forceful movements that cause whiplash can also result in a concussion, as well as brain contusions and hemorrhages, even in the absence of a direct impact on the head itself. A concussion can result in additional challenges, including the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion and a dazed mental state
Some patients have serious, long-term problems, such as personality changes and cognitive impairments.
The Role of Chiropractic Care in Auto Injury Treatment
Because brain injuries require special care, your choice of chiropractor is significant. Certified Brain Traumatologist Dr. Buchanan will conduct a thorough examination and design an individualized treatment plan. This may include soft tissue therapies to ease restricted muscles, as well as gentle adjustments that realign the neck bones and disks in order to restore proper function.
Brain Trauma and Auto Injury Treatment in Rochester
After an auto accident, it’s important to seek a medical evaluation right away—even if you think you haven’t been seriously injured. When you visit Northgate Chiropractic Clinic in Rochester, MN, Dr. Todd Buchanan, D.C. will assess your injuries and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Dr. Buchanan has earned an advanced certification in Whiplash and Brain Injury Traumatology, making him uniquely well-qualified to care for auto accident victims.
Thanks to his expertise and exceptional professional credentials, Dr. Buchanan can help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve from your insurance carrier. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Buchanan today by calling (507) 285-1677.
Posted In:
Auto Injury
Chiropractic
Concussions
