How A Chiropractor Can Help Treat A Brachial Plexus Injury
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. When these nerves are stretched, compressed, or torn due to trauma, it can result in weakness, numbness, or even paralysis in the affected limb.
Minor Brachial Plexus Injuries
Mild brachial plexus injuries, often referred to as “stingers” or “burners,” are temporary nerve irritations that typically occur due to sudden stretching or compression of the nerves in the neck and shoulder region.
These injuries are especially common in high-contact sports such as football, wrestling, hockey, and rugby, where abrupt impacts or awkward falls can overstretch the nerve network.
To clarify, the main symptoms of minor injuries are:
- A burning or electric shock sensation that radiates down the arm.
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the hand and fingers.
- Weakness or difficulty moving the affected arm.
- A warm sensation in the shoulder or upper arm.
Most minor injuries resolve within minutes to a few hours, though in some cases, symptoms may persist for a few days. However, repeated stingers can lead to chronic nerve irritation, muscle weakness, or even long-term mobility issues.
Athletes who experience multiple stingers should seek professional evaluation from a car crash doctor or chiropractor to prevent further damage and ensure the injury doesn’t worsen over time. Seeking timely care can help reduce the risk of persistent nerve damage and improve recovery outcomes. Chiropractic services can play a crucial role in this process, supporting the overall healing and recovery.
Major Brachial Plexus Injuries
Severe brachial plexus injuries involve partial or complete nerve tears, which can significantly impact arm function and require intensive rehabilitation. These injuries occur due to extreme force applied to the neck and shoulder, such as in:
- Motor vehicle accidents: A sudden jolt or impact can stretch or tear the nerves.
- Motorcycle crashes: Riders ejected from their bikes often experience traumatic nerve injuries.
- Severe falls: Falling from a height or landing awkwardly on the shoulder can damage the nerve plexus.
- Gunshot or stab wounds: These injuries can physically sever the nerves.
- Difficult childbirth (Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy): Excessive pulling on a baby’s shoulder during delivery can result in nerve damage.
In these cases, timely intervention by a car accident doctor is crucial for restoring function and reducing long-term complications.
On the other hand, you will also like to know the types of important brachial plexus injuries:
- Neurapraxia (Stretch Injury): The mildest form of nerve injury where the nerve is overstretched but remains intact. Recovery typically occurs within weeks to months.
- Rupture: A more severe injury where the nerve is torn but not completely detached from the spinal cord. Surgery may be required.
- Avulsion: The most serious form, where the nerve is completely pulled away from the spinal cord. This often leads to permanent paralysis of the affected arm and may require nerve grafts or muscle transfers.
Remember to be careful! Without timely intervention, major brachial plexus injuries can result in chronic pain, loss of motor function, and muscle atrophy. Early chiropractic and rehabilitative care can significantly improve outcomes.
Common Causes & Risk Factors: How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Brachial plexus injuries can result from various situations, including:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Sudden impacts from crashes can stretch or compress the nerves.
- Falls: Hard falls, especially those affecting the shoulder or neck, can lead to nerve damage.
- Sports injuries: Contact sports like football, wrestling, and rugby frequently cause nerve traction injuries.
- Birth trauma: Newborns can suffer brachial plexus injuries due to complications during delivery.
- Blunt force trauma: Direct blows to the neck or shoulder can damage the nerve network.
- Inflammation or tumors: In some cases, medical conditions such as tumors pressing on the brachial plexus can cause dysfunction.
Traumatic Injuries To The Brachial Plexus
You should also keep in mind that one of the most frequent causes of brachial plexus injuries are traffic accidents. The sudden force of a collision can violently stretch the nerves, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of function in the arm. Whiplash injuries, where the head and neck are forcefully jerked forward and back, can also contribute to nerve damage.
Individuals involved in car accidents should seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms are not immediately noticeable. For example, many patients in Phoenix turn to auto accident medical care to assess hidden injuries that could worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications.
Symptoms Of Brachial Plexus Injuries: Improve Healing
The symptoms of a brachial plexus injury can vary based on severity, but common signs include:
- Pain or burning sensations in the shoulder or arm.
- Weakness or inability to move the affected limb.
- Loss of sensation or numbness in the arm, hand, or fingers.
- A feeling of electric shock running down the arm.
- Muscle atrophy in severe cases.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking chiropractic care can help improve recovery outcomes.
Chiropractic Care For Brachial Plexus Injuries: Effective, Non-Invasive Options
Chiropractic treatment is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing brachial plexus injuries. By restoring spinal alignment and relieving pressure on the nervous system, chiropractors can help patients regain mobility and reduce pain.
Initial Assessment & Diagnosis
A chiropractor will conduct a thorough examination, including a review of medical history, physical assessments, and diagnostic imaging if necessary. This helps determine the extent of nerve damage and develop a personalized treatment plan. The chiropractor may also perform neurological tests to assess reflexes and muscle strength, further identifying which areas require focused attention.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle spinal adjustments help realign the vertebrae, reducing pressure on the nerves and improving overall function. By ensuring that the spine and nervous system are in optimal condition, these adjustments can alleviate discomfort and promote natural healing. These adjustments also improve the flow of nerve signals, potentially accelerating recovery and restoring proper nerve function.
Lifestyle & Ergonomic Advice
Chiropractors offer personalized recommendations on posture, workstation setup, and daily movement habits to reduce strain on the brachial plexus. Small changes, such as adjusting your chair height or modifying lifting techniques, can make a significant difference. For instance, patients recovering from injuries may also benefit from consulting an auto accident chiropractor to ensure proper alignment and prevent further complications.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Massage techniques, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy can relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. These therapies enhance the healing process by reducing nerve compression and restoring mobility. By addressing tight muscles and fascia around the injury site, chiropractors can help relieve discomfort while supporting the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Targeted exercises strengthen the muscles around the brachial plexus, helping to support recovery and prevent future injuries. A chiropractor may recommend specific stretching and strengthening routines to improve flexibility and reduce strain on the nerves. Additionally, these exercises help restore range of motion and ensure that the muscles around the injury heal properly, reducing the risk of reinjury.
Gentle Chiropractic Care Techniques For Brachial Plexus Injury Recovery
Chiropractors use specialized, low-force techniques to treat brachial plexus injuries, ensuring that adjustments support nerve healing without causing additional stress. Some of the most effective methods include:
1. Activator Method
This technique uses a small handheld device to deliver precise, low-force adjustments to the spine and affected areas. It is particularly beneficial for patients with nerve injuries because:
- It restores spinal alignment without excessive manual pressure.
- It improves nervous system function by reducing misalignments that may be exacerbating symptoms.
- It is a safe and comfortable alternative for individuals with pain sensitivity.
2. Cervical Traction
Cervical traction involves the gentle stretching of the neck and upper spine to:
- Reduce nerve compression by creating space between the cervical vertebrae.
- Alleviate pressure on the brachial plexus, improving nerve function.
- Enhance blood flow to the affected areas, promoting natural healing.
This technique is particularly useful for patients whose injuries are associated with whiplash or postural misalignment following an accident!
3. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
IASTM involves the use of specialized instruments to break down scar tissue and adhesions that may form after a brachial plexus injury. Benefits include:
- Restoring flexibility and mobility in affected muscles.
- Reducing inflammation and nerve entrapment that could be prolonging symptoms.
- Improving circulation to accelerate nerve recovery.
How a Chiropractor Can Help With Brachial Plexus Injuries
Seeking chiropractic care after an accident can make a significant difference in recovery. For instance, a car accident chiropractor in Queen Creek provides specialized care for injuries caused by vehicle collisions, including brachial plexus trauma.
A chiropractor can help by:
- Reducing nerve compression and inflammation.
- Restoring normal movement and function in the affected limb.
- Enhancing circulation to promote nerve regeneration.
- Providing a comprehensive rehabilitation plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
If you’ve experienced a car accident and are dealing with persistent pain or nerve issues, it’s essential to seek expert care!
Take The First Step Toward Brachial Plexus Injury Recovery With Chiropractic Care
Chiropractor in Queen Creek offers a safe and effective way to manage brachial plexus injuries, helping patients regain strength, mobility, and quality of life.
If you’re suffering from nerve pain or mobility issues after an accident, don’t wait to get help. Contact us at AZ Crash Doctors today for a professional evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
AZ CRASH DOCTORS
18477 S 186th Way #101
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Tel: 480-618-680
Email: azcrashdoctors@gmail.com
