In severe cases, spinal cord injuries may be treated with surgery and, initially, back or neck immobilizers. Surgery is followed by extensive rehabilitation to increase your range of movement and strength. Speak to your doctor about the best treatments.
For whiplash and related injuries, it is important to visit your doctor to report your injuries. Err on the side of caution; your injury may be more serious than you think, especially if you have numbness, tingling or pain radiating into your arms or legs. ICBC may also argue that the fact you did not attend the doctor soon after the accident is evidence that you were not injured.
Doctors generally recommend that you ice your neck or back soon after a whiplash injury to help reduce the swelling. Take painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication when recommended.
After your initial visit, your doctor will generally refer you to physiotherapy, massage or chiropractic care. Initially, your therapists will work on relaxing your tense muscles and getting full range of movement back. Eventually, your therapists will focus on strengthening your neck and back through stretches and exercises. It is important to follow the routines carefully and as directed by your health professionals.
For people who go on to develop chronic pain, they may need special treatment by a multi-disciplinary team of health professionals who specialize in treating pain. If you are not recovering after 12 months of pain, it is important to talk to your doctor about treatment options.
In all cases of whiplash or spinal cord injuries, it is important to stay in contact with your family doctor. Your family doctor is the quarterback of your treatment team. They coordinate your treatment and refer you to the appropriate specialists.
If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident, then ICBC should be paying for most or all of your treatment. Talk to a Preszler Law BC lawyer to learn more about what treatments ICBC should be covering.