What Not to Do After a Whiplash Injury in Savannah

An issue that we see far too frequently at our Savannah  clinics is whiplash.

Whiplash is a type of neck strain that frequently occurs in auto accidents due to abrupt movements back and forth.  The problem is that symptoms take time to manifest, so a lot of people in Savannah, Georgia, are unaware that they are even hurt in the first place. If treatment for this is not started early on, long-term issues may result.

That's why, even if you feel fine, we advise visiting a doctor following any auto accident.  This post will concentrate on what not to do in order to save your finances and well-being following a whiplash injury in Savannah, Georgia.

Don't Neglect Whiplash Injuries

After being involved in a car accident in Savannah, getting medical help is key, even if you feel fine. As the symptoms of soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, are frequently delayed, an early examination might help avoid long-term problems.

Visit an urgent care facility or make an appointment with an accident chiropractor who specializes in whiplash diagnosis if you don't require emergency care. Remember, the injury gets worse if treatment is not received, even though symptoms can take weeks to show up.

In order to guarantee a comprehensive assessment for whiplash and other frequent automobile accident injuries, let your chiropractor know that you were involved in a collision recently. Following a consultation, a physical examination will be conducted to diagnose whiplash and any other injuries.  After that, they will design a customized treatment program to aid in your full recovery and prevent complications.

Here are some common whiplash symptoms your doctor might ask about:

• Neck pain

• Shoulder or arm pain

• Stiff neck

• Headaches

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• Muscle tension

• Difficulty sleeping

• Limited neck movement

• Back pain

• Psychological issues like anxiety or depression

• Fatigue

• Jaw pain

• Dizziness

Don't Down Play At-Home Treatments

Although visiting a chiropractor is recommended, you can manage your discomfort until your appointment by following these at-home methods:

• Ice Therapy: For the first three days, apply ice that has been wrapped in a thin towel to your neck muscles for 15 minutes every three to four hours to help reduce inflammation.

• Heat Therapy (After Initial Inflammation): To encourage healing and relieve muscle tension, alternate using ice and warm, damp cloths or a heating pad until swelling has subsided, which should happen in three days or less.

Remember that these remedies are only short-term solutions. For the best possible outcome, seeing a chiropractor for a diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Don't Forget To Document The Accident

Before leaving the scene, there are some important things you should remember to do:

• Take pictures: Capture damage to vehicles, road conditions, and anything relevant to the accident.

• Take notes: Jot down details of the accident while your memory is fresh.

• Track your symptoms: Keep a log of any whiplash symptoms as they appear. This will be helpful for future medical appointments.

Why document?

• Detailed records can be valuable for insurance claims and may assist you in getting the compensation you deserve,  should you choose to pursue it.

Don't Fall Victim To The Insurance Company

It's important to understand your rights after an accident in Savannah, GA. Here's how to navigate the process:

• Report the accident: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but avoid discussing details beyond the basics.

• Consider legal counsel: Consulting a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial. They can advise you on navigating communication with your insurance company and ensure you understand your rights.

• Protect your claim: Before talking to your insurance company, your lawyer may advise you to:

  • Avoid admitting fault.

  • Avoid giving a detailed statement without legal guidance.

  • Avoid signing documents without lawyer review.

• Focus on medical care: Inform them you've been injured and are seeking medical treatment.

• Refer to your lawyer: After the initial conversation, direct them to your lawyer for further communication.

• Wait for medical clearance: Don't accept immediate settlement offers. Future medical needs are uncertain until medically cleared by your doctor.

• Long-term effects: Whiplash recovery can vary. While some heal within six months, others may experience chronic pain or complications.

• Maximize compensation: Your lawyer can help you obtain fair compensation once medically cleared.

Don't Do It All On Your Own

Whiplash and other frequent neck injuries sustained in auto accidents can complicate personal injury lawsuits.

Upon obtaining medical care and submitting a personal injury claim, numerous accident victims may face opposition from the responsible party and their insurance provider.

Insurance companies may use a variety of strategies to reduce your claim while you are healing from your injuries.

These strategies won't work against an attorney for injuries.

You can get help handling these challenging issues from a personal injury lawyer with knowledge in personal injury law.

Don't Skip Chiropractic Care

The secret to a successful whiplash recovery is early therapy.  If whiplash is not addressed, it can occasionally result in persistent pain, nerve sensitivity, disc problems, difficulty sleeping, and other long-term difficulties.

Throughout your whiplash rehabilitation process, chiropractors can be a very helpful resource.  They can aid in the appropriate healing of your neck and spine using a range of methods, including massage, targeted pressure therapy, light adjustments, and electrical stimulation.

Chiropractic care has the advantage of emphasizing non-addictive therapies that deal with the underlying causes of pain. This method goes beyond just covering up the pain to promote long-term healing.

The Arrowhead Clinic of Savannah

Neck pain following a car accident could be whiplash. Getting a medical evaluation is crucial. Chiropractic care can be a helpful option for some whiplash injuries. Many experienced chiropractors in Savannah offer non-invasive techniques like massage and adjustments to manage pain and improve mobility. They also create personalized treatment plans based on your specific injury.

Before scheduling an appointment, consider this: all of our Arrowhead chiropractic clinics in Savannah provide free consultations. These consultations allow you to discuss your injury and see if chiropractic care aligns with your recovery goals. Explore your options and find the right fit for you!