Injuries to the Spine, Nerves, and Muscles

"There is nothing soft about Soft Tissue Injury!"

If you have been in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) you may have experienced the most common injury to the upper spine, your neck. Common symptoms include joint pain, muscle pain, headaches, arm pain and leg pain. These symptoms occur when the vertebral joints and associated muscles and nerves are subjected to uncommon forces and movements associated with a car crash. It is important that you have an examination by a chiropractor as soon as possible to support the recovery process.

After the Crash

  • Some people develop pain, stiffness and other symptoms 7-10 days after an accident. This is not unusual, however, do not delay in seeking treatment from a chiropractic doctor.

  • Severe symptoms such as headache or arm/leg pain are also common. Advise us as soon as possible if this is present.

  • It is important to be aware that the effects of substantive crashes may recur over 6-18 months. Symptoms and effects will lessen gradually.

  • For most people, the pain and other symptoms associated with spinal injury usually decreases with gradual return to normal activity.

  • Most injuries are not serious and people often recover to their pre-accident condition. The amount of disruption to normal activities varies with the circumstances of the crash.

 

Diagnosis and treatment

We will provide a consultation for examination, diagnosis and to discuss your recovery options. We may recommend steps to treat any pain you experience including:

  • Necessary spine and related care

  • Modification to current activities

  • Home stretching and strengthening exercises

  • Ergonomic advice

Once we have agreed on a treatment plan, it is important that you follow our advice to support the recovery process.

 

PREVENTION

Closer head restraints can be twice as effective in preventing injuries as those that are set too far back.

  • Raise your headrest so the top of it is at least level with the top of your ears.

  • Your headrest should be as close as possible to the back of your head.

  • Make these adjustments each time you ride in a vehicle with an adjustable headrest.

  • Always wear your seat belt when you are in a moving vehicle. The belt should be securely fastened and rest snuggly across you waist and shoulder.

  • Drive safely. Following the rules of the road will significantly lower your risk of an accident.

 

ICBC Claims

Once your claim is confirmed, you get immediate approval for necessary chiropractic treatment. In addition, an option is available where ICBC will pay us directly. This option is available if your claim occurred on or after June 1, 2009. It’s your choice to use the new option or the current fee for service payment plan.