If you want to prevent long-term damage, it is imperative that appropriate treatment begins immediately after an accident. But what constitutes appropriate treatment?

In general, recovery happens in three stages:

1. Relief – use ice to reduce swelling and calm muscle spasm.
2. Correction – restore motion to tight spinal joints and release scar tissue adhesions in soft tissue injuries.
3. Rehabilitation – strengthening and stretching exercises to improve core stability.

Given the stages of recovery, “appropriate” treatment includes the use of ice, soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulation/adjustments and exercise.

Difficult cases may require advanced diagnostics like MRI or CT scan, and a possible referral to family practice physician or appropriate specialist. Our office maintains an extensive list of other medical professionals in case a referral is required.

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