Identifying & Treating Common Seat Belt-Induced Shoulder Injuries
Have you ever walked away from a car accident feeling sore and stiff, especially in your shoulders? Seat belt injuries, while often overlooked, can cause significant discomfort and limit your mobility. If you’re struggling with shoulder pain after an accident, a skilled auto accident chiropractor can provide the relief you need.
Discover how our targeted chiropractic care can help you recover quickly and get back to your normal life, free from pain and discomfort.
Understanding Seat Belt Injuries: Causes & Prevention
Seat belt injuries happen when the belt restrains the body abruptly during a car accident, causing compression and tension on the chest, shoulders, and abdomen. The rapid deceleration in a collision forces the body forward, making the seat belt distribute the impact force, which can lead to bruises, strains, or even fractures.
Improper use of seat belts, such as incorrect positioning, increases injury risks. Higher speeds and the type of collision also affect the severity of these injuries.
Seat belt regulations went into effect in the late 1980s, and by 1985, at least one bill had made seat belts mandatory in all but two states. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) then issued regulations requiring all automobiles manufactured after September 1, 1989, to be equipped with safety belts.
Wearing a seatbelt has decreased large auto-related accidents, but it may increase small accidents. However, it’s still essential to wear seatbelts to avoid the worst-case scenario.
In 2020, almost 24,000 car passengers were killed in auto-related accidents. Of them, 51% did not use seat belts.
Now that you know these statistics, you might be wondering what injuries seat belts cause exactly. Read below to find out.
Top Common Seat Belt Injuries: Symptoms & Effects
Seat belt injuries, while intended to save lives, can sometimes cause their own set of issues. The most common types of seat belt injuries include shoulder injuries, chest injuries, abdominal injuries, and neck injuries.
- Shoulder Injuries: They are caused by the force of the shoulder strap and can result in bruises, strains, or fractures
- Chest Injuries: Occur due to the belt’s force across the chest. These injuries may lead to bruising, rib fractures, or sternum injuries
- Abdominal Injuries: These happen if the lap belt sits too high on the abdomen. Can impact abdominal organs and cause internal damage.
- Neck Injuries: These injuries are caused by the seat belt crossing the neck instead of the shoulder. This can lead to whiplash or strain.
How Chiropractic Care Alleviates Shoulder Pain From Seat Belt Injuries
Chiropractic care can effectively address shoulder pain caused by seat belt injuries by using various techniques and treatments. Here’s how our chiropractors can help:
- Spinal Adjustments:
- Realign the spine to relieve pressure on the shoulder
- Promote natural healing and improve overall posture
- Soft Tissue Therapy:
- Relax and repair muscles and ligaments affected by the injury
- Reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation to the injured area
- Range of Motion Exercises:
- Guide patients through specific exercises to improve shoulder mobility
- Strengthen the shoulder muscles and prevent stiffness
- Pain Relief & Inflammation Reduction:
- Use various chiropractic techniques to provide immediate pain relief
- Address the root cause of pain to prevent recurrence
- Personalized Treatment Plans:
- Tailor treatments to individual needs based on the severity of the injury
- Ensure a holistic approach to recovery, considering the patient’s overall health
- Prevention Of Future Complications:
- Educate patients on proper body mechanics and posture
- Provide tips for avoiding further injury and maintaining shoulder health
By seeking chiropractic care, you ensure a comprehensive approach to healing shoulder pain from seat belt injuries, promoting long-term health and well-being.
Key Benefits Of Chiropractic Treatment For Shoulder Pain
Chiropractic treatment services offer numerous benefits, particularly for those suffering from shoulder pain due to seat belt injuries. Here are some of the benefits:
- Provides immediate relief from shoulder pain through targeted adjustments and therapies.
- Reduces inflammation and muscle tension, allowing for a more comfortable recovery.
- Restores the range of motion in the shoulder, making it easier to perform daily activities.
- Enhances flexibility and reduces stiffness
- Offers a natural, drug-free method of pain management and healing.
- Avoids the need for surgery, reducing recovery time and potential complications.
- Promotes quicker healing by addressing the root cause of pain and dysfunction.
- Helps prevent future injuries by improving posture and teaching proper body mechanics.
- May provide relief from other related symptoms, such as headaches and neck pain.
Start Your Journey to Pain-Free Living With Our Chiropractic Care
Shoulder pain from seat belt injuries can significantly impact your daily life, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent issue. Chiropractic care offers a natural and effective solution to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and promote faster recovery.
By addressing the root cause of your pain and providing comprehensive care, our Arizona Chiropractors help you return to your normal activities with greater comfort and reduced risk of future injuries.
Schedule an appointment now with AZ Crash Doctors and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Contact us now!
AZ CRASH DOCTORS
18477 S 186th Way #101
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Tel: 480-618-680
Email: azcrashdoctors@gmail.com
