Being in a car accident is a stressful experience, but knowing how to react can make the aftermath easier to navigate. Dr. Thomas A. Taylor III and our team at Alignment Chiropractic in Summerville hope that these tips help you and your loved ones respond well after an auto accident.
Secure Your Immediate Safety
The moments immediately after a car accident can be incredibly dangerous, especially if your vehicle remains in the way of oncoming traffic. Your first step should be to move your car out of traffic if possible. If the car cannot be moved, walk to a safe spot away from other vehicles to avoid personal injuries.
Perform a Quick Injury Assessment
You might be surprised to learn that many people do not feel pain during the initial moments after an auto accident. That is because your body goes into a state of shock. As your system is flooded with adrenaline and other hormones, the pain may not be immediately obvious. It is important to take a moment to determine if you are bleeding or show signs of serious distress. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, visibly broken bones, or experiencing significant pain, call for emergency care right away.
Pay Attention to Your Body
In the days and weeks following a car accident, you might begin to notice symptoms developing. While a degree of soreness is to be expected, any significant or lingering back pain, neck pain, or shoulder pain should prompt a call to our chiropractor. Swift treatment can give your body the support needed to heal while delaying intervention can make matters worse in the long run.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is among the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. It is a collection of neck symptoms that occur as a result of your neck being thrust in a rapid motion, placing strain on your neck. The symptoms go beyond simple neck pain and may include fatigue, headaches, limited range of motion, and sensations of tingling and numbness.
Get Treatment for Your Car Accident Injury
At Alignment Chiropractic, Dr. Thomas A. Taylor III performs a thorough diagnostic exam before developing a treatment plan. Your pain relief path may include massage therapy, pain management, chiropractic adjustments, and other treatments to restore your overall health and wellness. Rest assured that you will be in the best of care from start to finish. If you have recently been involved in an auto accident and live in or around Summerville, call our team at Alignment Chiropractic today at 843-771-4286 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Taylor.