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A Chiropractor’s Approach to Auto Accident Neck Injuries

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Despite being remarkably strong and flexible, the neck is surprisingly delicate. This part of your spine, known as the cervical spine, contains the seven smallest vertebrae in your spinal column. Your spinal cord, which acts as the information highway between your brain and the rest of your body, passes through the cervical spine, making it a particularly sensitive spot when it comes to traumatic injuries.

Automobile accidents are among the worst culprits when it comes to neck injuries. There are so many different kinds, and they can all affect your body’s ability to function at full capacity. That said, chiropractic care is the ideal treatment for identifying and correcting neck injuries after an accident. See below for some of the most common cases and associated symptoms, and learn how chiropractic can help.

•       Herniated Disc. The shock-absorbing discs that sit between your vertebrae are filled with a gel-like substance which helps cushion your spine. A traumatic injury can cause the tough outer edge of the disc to burst, allowing the spongy center to push its way out.

•       Radiculopathy. More simply defined as pinched nerves in the neck, radiculopathy can have far-reaching effects. You might feel pain or numbness in your extremities, all the way to your arms and legs.

•       Facet Joint Injury. Facet joints are what connect the vertebrae and give your spine its flexibility. Cervical facet joints are particularly susceptible to injury, and symptoms include soreness and stiffness.

•       Whiplash. Due to the high forces at play in a car accident, the sensitive muscles, tendons, and ligaments that hold your neck in place can suffer moderate to severe trauma. Symptoms of whiplash include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

Chiropractors have a number of tools and techniques at their disposal when approaching auto accident neck injuries. Here are just a few examples:

•       Cervical Adjustment. More generally known as spinal manipulation, this hands-on technique allows the chiropractor to correct any misalignments in the neck directly.

•       Spinal Decompression Therapy. With the help of a specialized traction table, a gentle stretch of the spine can alleviate any pressure that’s been placed on the discs in your cervical spine.

•       Therapeutic Massage. Massage therapy will assist in preventing muscle spasms, increasing blood flow, and releasing built-up tension and stiffness in the neck area.

Automobile accidents can be particularly tough on your neck, shoulders, and back. But don’t let that stop you from experiencing wellness. Visit us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, and you’ll see that relief and recovery are possible. Contact us to schedule an appointment and start feeling better today!

What Kind of Auto Accident Injuries Can Chiropractic Care Help With?

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The post-accident process can be particularly hectic and overwhelming. Not only do you have to worry about the immediate effects of the incident, but you need to work to resolve the far-reaching legal and financial consequences of the wreck as well. Oftentimes, especially in minor rear-end collisions or fender-benders with no major injuries, the safety and wellness of those involved can get lost in the shuffle.

For those that have been in an automobile accident, Chiropractic Health Charlotte is here to remind you that your health is important. Even if you’re asymptomatic, take some time out of your schedule to visit a chiropractor and receive an evaluation. Chiropractic care is perfect for treating many of the ailments that manifest after a car accident. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common examples:

•       Whiplash. Whiplash is very common with a rapid change in velocity. It’s possible that won’t feel it at the time of the accident, but you may notice a gradual soreness and stiffness settle in your neck.

•       Inflammation. If you notice any inflammation in your body after an accident, then you should consult a chiropractor. Inflammation is often the body’s response to the enormous internal strain that occurs during an accident. A chiropractor can be instrumental in helping the swelling to go down.

•       Joint Trauma. Your joints act like shock absorbers for the body. When the body undergoes something as sudden and violent as an automobile collision, your joints are likely to be sore. This is likely to be especially true for your elbows, knees, and shoulders, which bear the brunt of the force in a collision.

•       Concussion. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are very possible during a car accident. It makes sense, considering the high forces involved in a typical collision. Concussions are not usually fatal, but they can have severe effects, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, light sensitivity, and brain fog. These symptoms may also take time to manifest, so you might not notice it right away, making it even more of a concern.

•       Insomnia. While not technically an injury, the shock and trauma of a car accident can actually lead to sleep disorders and insomnia. Normal sleep patterns can be disrupted when your body is holding on to so much anxiety. Chiropractic can help promote deeper, healthier sleep that will allow you to get back on track.

Suffering from an automobile accident injury? Look no further! Chiropractic is the perfect solution, free of prescription medication and invasive surgeries. We invite you to request an appointment with Chiropractic Health Charlotte and schedule a consultation at one of our two office locations. Get started with us today!

How To Check if Chiropractic Care Due to an Auto Accident Is Covered by My Insurance

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Insurance is a critical part of any car crash, especially when there are injuries involved. You’ll need it to help you pay for medical treatment, as well as repairing the damage to your vehicle. One particularly effective means of recovery after an auto accident is chiropractic care. But when it comes to insurance coverage, it’s easy to get confused. So many people miss out on the opportunity for healing and pain relief, simply because they weren’t sure if treatment was covered under their current policy.

If this sounds like you, don’t let the chance pass you by. We’re here to help clear up any uncertainty and misconception when it comes to chiropractic care and insurance after an auto accident. How can you find out if you’re covered? Read on to learn more!

First, since the injuries are accident-related, you’ll want to use your car insurance toward any medical treatment, including chiropractic. Personal injury protection is not offered to motorists in North Carolina, but Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) acts as an optional alternative that can be added to your policy. When you file a claim with your insurer, it’s essential that you file a medical claim. While accident claims primarily deal with physical damage to your vehicle, medical claims are more specifically tailored to compensate for any bodily injuries sustained during a wreck.

Even if you’re covered by MedPay, you may still be required to demonstrate that chiropractic care is reasonably necessary to your recovery. For example, cuts and bruises don’t necessitate specialized treatment, but whiplash or subluxation can benefit from chiropractic care. Keep in mind that you may need to pay the office costs upfront, depending on your insurance company’s payment structure. It may be wise to clarify before you commit to chiropractic: Will they pay for the treatment as you go? Or do you need to wait until the treatment process is complete and then request reimbursement at that time?

If you’re ever unsure about anything, reach out and contact your auto insurance provider directly. Be sure to ask if you have MedPay, how much you have in that fund, what you must demonstrate to access those funds, and what the payment structure looks like. Most, if not all, auto insurance providers will cover chiropractic treatment after an accident, provided that you have the proper coverage in place.

Searching for a place to use that auto insurance? We invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Car accident injuries can be debilitating, but we’re here to help. Get started on the road to recovery by requesting an appointment with us today!

 

Why Having a Chiropractor Could Be Essential for Recovering From an Auto Accident

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Chiropractic care can be a great addition to your everyday routine. From on-site spinal adjustments to at-home stretches and exercises, our practice fits seamlessly into your daily life, allowing you to maintain optimal health and wellness. But don’t underestimate the potential of chiropractic when it comes to serious accidents and injuries. Auto accidents are unfortunately common, hovering at around 276,000 for 2021 in North Carolina alone. Drilling down further, we see that just over 74,000 of these crashes resulted in injuries of some kind.

Fortunately, chiropractic is not just about maintenance. In fact, many patients’ first experience with chiropractic came about because they were seeking relief and recovery after a traumatic injury. Here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, we believe that chiropractic is an essential part of the post-accident healing process. Read on to learn how our services can support the victims of automobile accidents.

First, it’s worth mentioning the natural benefits that come with chiropractic care. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be prescribed medication to help manage the pain, or you might even be recommended for a surgical procedure. While both options may ultimately be effective, they are incredibly intrusive and can cause lasting damage. Try chiropractic first for an alternative form of treatment that supports your body’s natural healing processes.

Chiropractic care can help manage the painful symptoms after an auto accident and, perhaps even more importantly, identify and treat injuries that may be asymptomatic. The musculoskeletal system is a complex and delicately balanced structure. Something as sudden and traumatic as a car crash can cause underlying issues that might otherwise go undiagnosed and untreated.

An essential part of the recovery process is rest and relaxation. Your body needs to time to recuperate as it heals from the trauma of the accident. Many people find that they suffer mild to severe symptoms of PTSD after a car crash. This is perfectly normal, but the increased stress, anxiety, and paranoia can be detrimental to the healing process. Such issues may even interfere with your normal sleep patterns, causing you to develop insomnia. Chiropractic is equipped to help guide the body from a heightened state of fight-or-flight into one of relaxation response. Ask your chiropractor about a few surefire tips and tricks to a better night’s sleep.

If you or a loved one are currently struggling after an automobile accident, just know that chiropractic can be an essential part of your journey. Don’t try to do it alone. Contact us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte to schedule an appointment, and we’ll do our best to support you in your recovery. We look forward to working with you!

 

Understanding the Causes of Shoulder Injuries and Chiropractic Solutions for It

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When people think about chiropractic, they tend to focus on treatment for the back and neck. After all, the practice is primarily concerned with the spine, right? While that may be true, chiropractic care has so much more to offer. For example, patients often come seeking relief from generalized pain in their head, shoulders, hands, legs, etc.

Shoulder pain is a particularly common issue. Your shoulders are in such close proximity to the neck and spine, and yet they function independently with their own complex set of muscles, tendons, and nerves. These structures can suffer from injury, just like any other part of the body, and the resulting discomfort may cause a significant decrease in your quality of life. Let’s explore some of the most frequent causes of shoulder injury and how chiropractic can help.

•      Tendonitis. This is the inflammation of your rotator cuff. Tendonitis typically results from repetitive overuse of the muscles in your shoulder, often after participating in certain strenuous sports.

•      Pinched Nerves. Also known as cervical radiculopathy, compression between the vertebrae in your neck can cause nerves to become pinched. This may lead to a radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in your shoulder.

•      Rotator Cuff. The rotator cuff is the series of muscles and tendons that keep your arm in its shoulder socket. Injury can be the result of a traumatic accident, or it may occur gradually over time with use.

•      Bursitis. Bursa are sac-like structures that serve to decrease friction between tissue and bone. Bursitis in the shoulder occurs when these bursas become swollen and inflamed, typically due to excess stress.

•      Frozen Shoulder. As the name implies, frozen shoulder severely limits the movement and range of your shoulder due to tissue inflammation. Keeping your arm still for long periods of time (e.g., post surgery recovery, having your arm in a cast, etc.) can increase the risk.

•      Dislocation. A dislocation occurs when the arm pops out of its shoulder socket. This typically requires the force of a sudden, traumatic injury.

Chiropractors have a number of tools and techniques at their disposal to treat shoulder pain. Cervical spinal manipulation can help release pinched nerves, and gentle applied pressure can increase range of motion and encourage the release of stiff muscles and tendons. The traditional direct thrust technique is invaluable for correcting a dislocated shoulder. If you’re experiencing chronic shoulder pain, ask your chiropractor how you can avoid overuse and injury in the future.

For more helpful tips and tricks, see some of our other published articles. If you’re looking for a chiropractor to call home, consider Chiropractic Health Charlotte for all your needs. Request an appointment through our website to schedule a consultation today!

Understanding the Science Behind Chiropractic Adjustments

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Chiropractic care is built on the philosophy that the individual systems in your body are intricately connected. More specifically, your nervous system, controlled by the brain and the spinal cord, can have profound effects across your entire body. Everything from migraines to indigestion to lack of focus can be traced back to a communication gap in the nervous system. Here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, we like to help our patients stay informed. So whether you’re new to chiropractic care or you just want a quick refresher on the science behind the practice, let us be your guide as we explore the subject a bit deeper.

There’s one question that many new patients have when they are first getting acquainted with the practice: “If the nervous system is the primary concern, then why do chiropractors place such an emphasis on the spine?” The answer lies in the way your nervous system functions. The system as a whole is split into two main parts. Your brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system, and the vast branching network of nerves that extend throughout your entire body comprises the peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nervous system relies on the central nervous system to function with accuracy and efficiency.

Your spinal cord is housed within the vertebral column, commonly referred to as the spine, which is made up of 33 individual bones known as vertebrae. These vertebrae can move and shift slightly, disrupting the natural alignment of your spine and putting pressure on the spinal cord within. Vertebrae that have shifted or torqued are known as “subluxations,” and they can lead to pain and dysfunction in the body. Your central nervous system can not communicate as effectively with the peripheral nervous system. This is where chiropractic comes in.

The goal of chiropractic adjustments is to correct these subluxations through gentle, non-invasive spinal manipulations. A chiropractor may ease vertebrae back into place, or they might relieve the tension in a muscle that keeps pulling your spine out of alignment. By restoring the body’s natural function, patients experience a better quality of life. Pain relief, efficient healing, and improved mobility are just a few of the many benefits that come with chiropractic adjustment.

Your body is a delicate balance of interconnected systems that determine your overall health, so choose chiropractic as the natural, science-based treatment method for chronic or traumatic pain. Our holistic approach steers clear of medications and invasive surgeries. Get in touch with our offices here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte to see how you can get started today!

How Chiropractic Treatments Can Bring Relief to Neck Pain

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While chiropractic is ideal for correcting and minimizing painful symptoms in the back, keep in mind that the spine goes all the way up through your neck. This area, known as the cervical spine, may experience different types of trauma that present their own unique set of challenges. Let’s do a deep dive on the neck from a chiropractic perspective: How is it constructed? What activities or disorders may cause harm to the sensitive muscles and nerves housed there? How can you find relief from pain? Read on for the answers to these questions and more.

First, the cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae in total, starting at the base of your skull. The first two vertebrae nearest your skull, called the atlas and the axis, hold your head upright and allow for side-to-side movement, respectively. The cervical spine is surrounded by a collection of muscles, ligaments, and nerves that allow for full range of motion. As a whole, these individual parts make up your neck.

There are several things that could cause damage to these delicate inner workings. Some of these events are traumatic and occur immediately, while others take place slowly over time. See below for some examples:

•      Accidents & Injuries. From sports injuries to car accidents, your neck is often the first to feel the effects. Whiplash is among the most common traumatic injuries, and it can cause stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.

•      Degenerative Disk Disease. This can cause the disks between your cervical vertebrae to wear thin and lose their natural elasticity. Patients typically experience pain, tingling, or numbness.

•      Poor Posture. Sitting or standing without the proper support can put an enormous strain on your cervical spine. This wears on the body over time.

•      Stress & Tension. When your stress levels are elevated, the muscles in your neck tighten, causing stiffness.

When you begin consulting a chiropractor, they’ll typically complete an exam to determine the root cause of your neck pain. From there, treatment consists primarily of neck adjustments. Chiropractors are trained in the precise application of pressure to realign vertebrae, relieve painful symptoms, and restore function to the spine. A wide array of stretches and therapies, prescribed by your chiropractor on a case-by-case basis, may be the perfect complement to regular spinal adjustments.

If you’re suffering from neck pain, we invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Our team of doctors is passionate about the health and wellness of our patients. Contact us today to request an appointment!

 

How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Physical Labor-Intensive Jobs

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Not all people in the workforce have desk jobs. In fact, according to data presented by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only just under 30% of civilian workers occupied sedentary positions. The other 70% occupied roles that required frequent standing, walking, or lifting of significant weight. While sedentary work can lead to its own set of issues in the back and neck over time, labor-intensive jobs are obviously more likely to cause direct damage to the spine and surrounding muscles.

Because your body is constantly in use, you need to take care of it. Fortunately, chiropractic care is well-equipped to support you and help mitigate the long-term effects of physically taxing jobs. First, let’s take a look at some of the most common conditions that plague workers today:

•      Back & Neck Pain. Labor-intensive jobs can be tough on your spine and the muscles that control it. Repetitive motion or improper lifting technique may gradually lead to chronic pain in your back, neck, and shoulders.

•      Muscular Strain. Overextension occurs when you push your body beyond its physical capabilities. You might pull a muscle by stretching it too far or working it too hard. The same can be said for damage to tendons and ligaments, which leads to sprains or tearing.

•      Stress Tension. Perhaps you’ve heard that people store stress in the body. Among the most common locations to store stress are the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. This can cause pain and discomfort.

•      Misalignment & Imbalance. People who spend most of the day on their feet need to have the proper support. Without quality footwear, a worker may throw their spine out of alignment, causing further issues with strength and balance.

With that in mind, here are four quick tips from a chiropractor that will help prevent injury and promote healthy function:

1.     Stay Hydrated. Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times so you can get plenty of fluids throughout the day.

2.     Take Care of Your Body. Warm-ups and proper lifting technique will go a long way in protecting yourself from injury.

3.     Rest & Recharge. Take breaks as needed, and don’t push yourself beyond your physical capacity.

4.     Get a Chiropractic Adjustment! The best thing you can do to improve your daily performance and minimize the wear-and-tear of a physically demanding job is to visit a chiropractor. Spinal adjustments and other holistic therapies can help realign your skeleton, reduce stress and strain, and ease painful symptoms in your back and neck.

Everyone can benefit from chiropractic care, so don’t hesitate. We invite you to join us at one of Chiropractic Health Charlotte’s two locations for a professional consultation and personalized treatment. Request an appointment on our website to get started today!

 

How To Set Up Your First Chiropractic Appointment & What to Prepare

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Like any other medical office, most chiropractors make an effort to streamline the process of scheduling an appointment so it’s as easy as possible for patients in need. For most people, an initial consultation will be a crucial first step in the process. Chiropractors typically offer this as a way to introduce the practice and get to know you a bit better, oftentimes performing a preliminary physical exam that tests range of motion, posture, and muscular strength. This is the perfect time for you to ask any questions you may have regarding treatment methods and timeline, as well as schedule your first adjustment.

Booking a consultation is often as easy as contacting the chiropractic office by phone, email, or web form. The exact method will vary between practices, but today’s digital landscape makes it easier than ever to find what you need via search engines and web pages. Here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, you can request an appointment directly on our website. Simply use the provided form to send us your name, email, and phone number, as well as what type of appointment you’d like to make. If you’d rather contact us directly, use the phone numbers on our website to call one of our two locations in Matthews or Dilworth.

After your initial consultation, you’ll typically be asked to schedule a follow-up adjustment with the administrative team. Chiropractic care is preventative as well as responsive, meaning that consistent maintenance through regular visits is just as important as addressing immediate symptoms. You may be asked to come a few times a week at the start of your treatment, but the frequency may lessen to once or twice per month over time. Follow your chiropractor’s recommendations, and always be sure to keep your appointments.

Now that you’re on the schedule, here are some things you can do to prepare:

•      Wear comfortable clothing. Chiropractic is a very tactile practice. Be sure to wear flexible, breathable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement.

•      Make a list of symptoms and problem areas. There’s nothing worse than having your mind go blank at the most inopportune moment. Making a list will help you remember, and it will give your chiropractor a better idea of what needs work.

•      Arrive before your scheduled time slot. Just like at the doctor or the dentist, be sure to arrive early in case you need to fill out any paperwork.

Ready to get started? Request an appointment with Chiropractic Health Charlotte today. We look forward to working with you!

How To Pick the Right Chiropractor Based Off Your Needs

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Whether you’re new to chiropractic care or you just moved to a different area, the first step to a successful chiropractic experience is finding the right chiropractor for your needs. Believe it or not, there are countless things to consider when selecting a practice, and it might seem a little overwhelming. This can be especially true if there are dozens of locations to choose from in your area, all claiming to be the best and the greatest. But at the end of the day, you have to be the one to decide what’s most important to you. Fortunately, there are a few key things to consider that will make it much easier to evaluate and screen potential options. Read on to learn more!

Location
If at all possible, we recommend looking for chiropractors in your immediate area. You don’t want to spend an hour in the car each way when coming in for an appointment, especially if you have to do it multiple times per week. Narrow the scope of your search to find contenders within your preferred range.

Affordability
This will be a deal-breaker for many people, so be sure to get all the info up front. What is the cost per appointment? Do they accept insurance? Every practice is a little different, so make certain that you can afford it.

Services
What kinds of services do they offer? Many chiropractic practices offer acupuncture, spinal decompression, laser therapy, and even nutrition counseling. Are you getting a good assortment of specialized treatments and therapies for the price?

Conditional Knowledge
If you have a specific issue or chronic condition, then it may be important that your chiropractor has specific and detailed knowledge on that subject. Find a practice that will understand where you’re coming from and how to move forward.

Telehealth
The COVID-19 pandemic made telehealth more popular and more accessible than ever before. While chiropractic is a very tactile practice, there may be times when you simply need to consult your chiropractor or evaluate your progress. Ask if they offer telehealth services, as this could save you lots of time and money.

Gender
Maybe you don’t have a preference one way or the other, but some patients will specifically want to be treated by a male or female chiropractor. If this is a deal-breaker for you, be sure to learn the chiropractor’s gender before making any commitments.

Chiropractic Health Charlotte: Matthews & Dilworth
If you’re looking for a chiropractor to call home, we invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Our two locations make it easier than ever for patients to get the care they deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!