Stretches to Do After a Car Accident

Have you recently been involved in a collision on the road? Whether it’s a no-fault accident or a simple fender bender, one of your first steps should be to visit your chiropractor in Brooklyn, NY. The team at Williamsburg Chiropractic is experienced in helping patients recover after a car accident, and we can recommend some stretches and corrective exercises to help relieve your back and neck pain. 

When Is It Safe to Stretch After a Car Accident?

After being in a car accident, it's important to listen to your body and give it time to heal. While the adrenaline rush might make you feel fine initially, you may have incurred hidden injuries that don’t result in pain right away. 

Typically, experts recommend waiting at least 72 hours before attempting any stretches or exercises following a car accident. This timeframe allows your body to begin the healing process and reduces the risk of further injury.

During these initial days post-accident, focus on resting, icing any sore areas, and seeking medical attention if needed. That includes your chiropractor, who can assess your condition and provide guidance on safe stretches and corrective exercises tailored to your specific needs.

Stretches to Do for Back & Neck Pain After a Car Accident

The doctors at Williamsburg Chiropractic may recommend specific stretches to help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing after a car accident. These stretches target key muscles in your back that may have been strained or injured during the impact.

One common stretch is the cat-cow stretch, where you arch your back up like a cat and then lower it down like a cow. This movement helps to increase flexibility and mobility in the spine, which can ease post-accident back pain. Another effective stretch is the child’s pose, which gently stretches out the lower back muscles.

Shoulder blade squeezes are also beneficial in relieving neck tension. While sitting or standing, hold your arms out to your sides and squeeze your shoulder blades together as if trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold for 5-10 seconds and release.

Another effective stretch is chin tucks. Sit or stand tall, tuck your chin towards your chest without moving your shoulders, and hold for 5-10 seconds. This helps strengthen neck muscles and improve posture.

These stretches can aid in reducing stiffness and promoting healing after a car accident-related neck injury. But before trying them, consult with your Brooklyn chiropractor to ensure that you’re taking the right steps toward healing. 

Visit Williamsburg Chiropractic for Help After a Car Accident

Even if you don’t feel hurt, a car accident can cause significant trauma. Left unchecked, this can develop into more severe and painful issues. The doctors at Williamsburg Chiropractic specialize in assessing and treating injuries that are common after car accidents, which can include recommending stretches to help you manage the pain. Schedule your appointment with us today to get started on your road to recovery.