Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Many people seek chiropractic care after an auto accident, as it can be effective in reducing pain and discomfort associated with whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.
Research has shown that chiropractic care can be effective in reducing the need for medication after an auto accident. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that patients who received chiropractic care within the first 12 weeks after an auto accident were less likely to require opioid pain medication than those who did not receive chiropractic care. The study also found that patients who received chiropractic care had fewer medical expenses and fewer disability claims than those who did not receive chiropractic care.
Another study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in 2018 found that chiropractic care can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with whiplash-associated disorders. The study found that patients who received chiropractic care had greater improvements in pain and disability scores than those who received standard medical care.
Overall, while more research is needed, these studies suggest that chiropractic care can be an effective alternative to medication for reducing pain and improving function after an auto accident. However, it’s important to note that chiropractic care is not a substitute for medical care, and anyone who has been involved in an auto accident should seek medical attention immediately.