When you have been in a car accident, you know that it can be a traumatizing and life changing experience. Even accidents at low speed that cause minimal injury (or none that can be detected at the time) can be potentially harmful. Injuries to the neck or spine can be masked by adrenaline and stress. Many car accident victims may be injured and not realize it for may days or weeks.

The first 72 hours after a car accident are critical and a common injury like whiplash can go undetected for hours, days, or even weeks. You may have whiplash if you are suffering from any of these symptoms:

• Reduced range of motion in the neck
• Neck stiffness
• Neck pain
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Shoulder pain
• Arm pain
• Neck stiffness
• Lower back pain

To reduce future pain or discomfort, whiplash should be evaluated within 72 hours by a Delray Beach auto accident chiropractor.

It is important to keep in mind these 5 facts about car accidents and Delray Beach auto accident chiropractic care:

1. Just because a car does not get damaged does not mean you are not injured. Bumpers take a lot of the force of a slow-moving impact, but not all. The force must travel somewhere, and it travels through you. If in doubt always consult a Delray Beach car accident chiropractor for a thorough injury assessment.
2. Seat belts prevent you from being thrown against the steering wheel and from being thrown out of the car. You are, however, thrown against the belt. Shoulder injuries and whiplash are common symptoms and should be addressed by a qualified Delray Beach car accident chiropractor.
3. Auto accident injury Pain can take up to 10 days to show up after the most minor of car accidents. Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can take weeks to manifest.
4. Even minor auto accident-related injuries can take up to 3 months of regular chiropractic treatment to show tangible and lasting relief from pain.
5. When you are in a car accident you are often jarred forward unexpectedly, making your head and neck especially vulnerable. After a car accident it is always advisable to see a Delray Beach auto accident chiropractor as soon as possible.