Whiplash injuries can vary in severity. Many injuries that are considered a grade 2 WAD (whiplash associated disorder) and have any other pain or symptoms outside of the neck pain will often require a team approach to care. Each member of this treatment team is important and there can be some differences in care team members for each person, depending on their particular struggles.
Here is a table that describes the functions of some of the team members that can play a role in recovery from whiplash and other injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents.
As you can see, there are multiple professions that might be necessary to help someone recover from a motor vehicle accident injury, like whiplash grade 2. Your medical team is very important in this team as they can help you to access different types of assessment and care. You do not need a referral from a medical doctor to get care with a chiropractor or physiotherapist after a motor vehicle accident, but it is recommended that you keep your doctor or nurse practitioner aware of your injuries their condition.
Chiropractic treatment can be helpful in reducing pain and improving one's ability to move. Movement and exercise are very important in the recovery process from injuries like whiplash and concussion. A physiotherapist will also help with these things, but each profession may provide care in slightly different ways. Sometimes, when there are multiple areas of pain or symptoms, a chiropractor and physiotherapist may collaborate (in the same or different offices) and decide who will focus on which parts of an injury, based on the strengths of each practitioner.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and are only working with a chiropractor or physiotherapist, you may want to consider pursuing some other professionals to add to your team. Discuss these options with your doctor. If you have having trouble doing things in your home, you may benefit from working with an occupational therapist and if you are having changes in your mood, you should discuss this with your medical team, and they can refer you to an appropriate professional to assess and treat your mood changes.
Recovery from a motor vehicle accident is often difficult. Having an experienced team that is prepared to work together, in your best interests, is critical to see more progress, sooner in your recovery.
I you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, and are looking for whiplash injury treatment in Ottawa and surrounding area, even if you are already working with a physiotherapist, call 613-852-7769 or email info@lowertownrehabilitation.ca to learn if adding chiropractic care could help you in your recovery from whiplash injuries and other problems that often result from motor vehicle accidents.
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