More than 35 million Americans are affected by migraine headaches, the world's sixth-most disabling illness. If you fall into this category, you don't need to struggle with the debilitating pain. A chiropractor can treat your migraines, offering both immediate and long-term relief. 

The Aftermath of an Accident

A car accident often causes a physical injury called whiplash. As the neck quickly jerks in an unexpected direction due to the collision, the spine and surrounding muscles are stressed. This can lead to pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and emotional stress, such as PTSD.

The Symptoms of PTSD 

PTSD itself affects everyone differently, just like stress and anxiety, but there are some common symptoms that people experience. They may experience the accident repeatedly in their mind, such as flashbacks or bad dreams. 

They may avoid driving or any activities that remind them of the experience, such as staying away from the scene of the accident. The individual may be affected by unusual moods such as feeling tense, on edge, anger, guilt, or blame. They may become easily startled, have trouble remembering the accident, or lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. 

How Chiropractic Care Relieves Symptoms

Whiplash and PTSD are closely related, as they are both affected by the spine. In addition to supporting the body and head, the spine serves as the communication path for your central nervous system. All communication for the nerves through the body pass through the spine, and when the spine is damaged, the blocked “nerve highway” can have a negative effect on the body's ability to handle negative emotions. 

Meanwhile, the body reacts physically to the stress and anxiety caused by PTSD with a rise in cortisol, the stress hormone. This makes muscles tense up and raises blood pressure, which causes further stress to the spine. It becomes a damaging cycle. 

A chiropractor realigns the spine, releasing the stress caused by tight muscles and opening up the nerve pathway for your central nervous system. The spinal correction relieves neck pain and restores the range of motion. The body can relax, reducing the amount of cortisol that's released, which in turn allows the mind to relax. As a result, treatment from a chiropractor will prevent persistent pain and PTSD symptoms. 

If you've been in an accident, the best action you can take for your mental and physical health is to schedule an appointment at South Main Chiropractic Clinic in High Point, NC. This chiropractor uses progressive methods and techniques to treat car accident injuries. Learn more about what they do on their website and call (336) 885-5200 to schedule an appointment.