Reducing Injury Risk with an Auto Accident

One of the top causes of injuries in the U.S. results from car accidents. Unfortunately, with the sheer number of people on the road auto accidents are quite common. The estimated three million people that are injured each year put a large burden on the U.S. healthcare system. Long term issues pose the largest burden secondary to onset of disability and chronic suffering.

Spine Alignment and Auto Injuries

The major risk factor associated with injury and pain in the event of an auto accident is the impact that the car and passengers sustain. Most often strain occurs to tissues in the neck, back, and head. Even with lower impact injuries, the phenomenon of delayed symptoms often occurs with an auto injury.

Delayed symptoms like pain, stiffness, and loss of function commonly occur with more subtle issues related to spine alignment. Spine misalignment is a major driving force in the symptoms that manifest with time, yet they are commonly overlooked. This is why seeking immediate help from someone specialized in Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), an elite approach to holistic spine care, can help you get on track quickly and provide long term results.

Spine misalignment affects nerve flow and the body’s ability to optimally complete everyday functions crucial for good health. There are ways to minimize the effects of spine misalignment in the event of a car accident, which we will discuss now. Always talk to a CBP practitioner for further expert advice.

Preventing Severe Auto Injuries

Here are some quick tips for decreasing your risk of injury in the event of a car accident. They can also help minimize your down time.

Don’t Forget Your Seatbelt

We all know seatbelts are important, but are you wearing yours correctly for proper impact absorption? The seatbelt should be connected without any twists. Always ensure the lap belt is crossing your pelvis bones, not your stomach, and that the shoulder strap crosses midchest near the sternum and then the shoulder itself. Lastly, make sure the belt is snug and secure.

Seat Adjustments are Important

Airbags are important but can also cause unnecessary damage if not properly aligned. Always keep your seat as far away from your steering wheel as possible, while still being able to drive safely. Additionally, the headrest and seat incline should be adjusted so that you are sitting comfortably supported in good posture while driving. Specifically, your headset should be aligned with the back of your head to minimize risk of whiplash.

Your Steering Wheel

The next time you get in your car take note of where your steering wheel is pointing. If it’s pointing at your face, which is common, it should be adjusted to point at your chest. This will promote better impact absorption and decrease strain to the head and neck if the airbags are deployed.

Pay Attention to Your Posture

With your seat adjusted properly, keeping good posture should be easy. However, don’t forget about your full body alignment. Try to avoid common habits like crossing your legs, putting the feet up on the dashboard or leaning significantly to one side. This sets your body up for spine misalignment issues anyways that would only be exacerbated with an accident. Opt for keeping your feet flat on the floor with good posture.

Auto Accidents and Chiropractic Care

Understanding good spine alignment can help prevent unnecessary injuries with an auto accident. Yet, since injuries happen it’s good to seek care from an expert. A CBP care provider can help you restore spine alignment to start healing and feeling your best as soon as possible. Find a certified Chiropractor in your area to maximize your recovery process today for both your prevention and treatment needs.