Car accidents generate significant force through the spine, even in low-speed collisions. This force can cause spinal misalignment, joint restrictions, nerve irritation, and disc injuries that require professional treatment. Chiropractic care is one treatment option for these spinal injuries, and we bill ICBC directly for pre-approved chiropractic treatments at Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond.
How Car Accidents Affect Your Spine
During a collision, your body is subjected to rapid acceleration and deceleration forces. These forces can shift vertebrae out of their normal alignment, compress or irritate spinal nerves, strain the ligaments that support spinal joints, cause disc bulging or herniation, and create joint restrictions that limit your range of motion.
These spinal injuries may not be immediately obvious. Many patients feel only mild stiffness in the first few days, and symptoms can develop or worsen over the following days and weeks. Left unaddressed, some of these problems can lead to ongoing pain, headaches, and reduced function.
What Chiropractic Treatment Addresses After a Car Accident
Our chiropractor treats the following car accident-related conditions: cervical spine misalignment from whiplash, thoracic and lumbar spine restrictions from impact forces, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, nerve impingement causing radiating pain, headaches originating from the cervical spine, and reduced spinal range of motion.
ICBC Coverage for Chiropractic Care
Within the first 12 weeks after a crash, you do not need a doctor’s referral or ICBC approval to start chiropractic treatment — bring your ICBC claim number and BC Personal Health Number (PHN). In that period ICBC pre-approves up to 25 chiropractic treatments; treatment beyond that needs ICBC approval. We bill ICBC directly for your pre-approved treatments. If part of a fee is not covered by ICBC (a user fee), we tell you before your treatment.
Chiropractic as Part of a Comprehensive Recovery Plan
At Artemis, chiropractic care can be combined with RMT massage therapy, acupuncture, and physiotherapy. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore joint mechanics. RMT addresses the surrounding muscle tension. Acupuncture may help with pain and inflammation. Physiotherapy focuses on rebuilding strength and stability. All four treatments are available under your single ICBC claim at our clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic care safe after a car accident?
For most people, yes, after a proper assessment. Our chiropractor conducts a thorough assessment before any treatment and uses appropriate techniques for your specific injury. Chiropractic care is a common treatment for spinal injuries from car accidents.
How soon after an accident should I see a chiropractor?
Within the first 1 to 2 weeks if possible. Early assessment and treatment may help prevent secondary problems from developing.
Do I need imaging before chiropractic treatment?
Your chiropractor will determine whether imaging is needed based on your clinical presentation. In many cases, a thorough physical examination is sufficient to begin treatment.
Book ICBC Chiropractic in Richmond
Call 604-242-2233 or book at artemis.janeapp.com. ICBC direct billing available.
