Shoulder injuries are one of the most common auto accident injuries. That’s because the shoulders are among the most fragile parts of our bodies. At Ivy Commons Family Chiropractic in Charlottesville, VA, Dr. Custer is eager to help you get rid of your shoulder pain and improve your range of motion. Chiropractic care can be used to reduce your pain and speed up your recovery process. We would like to look at the best ways to take care of your shoulder injury after an auto accident.

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Rest For a Few Days

The first thing you need to do is take it easy and let your body recover. This means no working out, no heavy lifting, and avoiding any activities that put a strain on your shoulder. Doing any of these activities will worsen your shoulder pain and slow down your recovery.

Elevate Your Shoulder

When you’re resting, be sure to elevate your shoulder above the level of your heart. This will help reduce any swelling. You can do this by lying on your back with a pillow under your shoulder. Alternatively, you can sit in a recliner or lay on your side with a pillow between your legs.

Apply an Ice Pack

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Do this for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day. Be careful not to apply the ice for too long, as this can cause skin damage. Also, don’t apply ice directly to the skin, be sure to wrap it in a towel first.

Compress Your Shoulder

To reduce your swelling, you can also compress your shoulder with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve. This will also support your shoulder and prevent further injury. Make sure the bandage is not too tight, as this can cause additional pain.

Visit Our Licensed Chir opractor in Charlottesville, VA

If you’re looking for long-term relief and want to avoid taking pain medication, visiting a chiropractic care practice is your best bet for treating auto accident injuries. At Ivy Commons Family Chiropractic, Dr. Custer offers a variety of services to help reduce pain and improve your range of motion. We address shoulder injuries and several other health conditions with natural, effective chiropractic care. Call our team today at (434) 293-2779 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.