So you have been in a car accident? What are the right steps to make sure your body is brought back to pre-accident condition? It's important to know your rights in this process. I have worked on many people who have benefitted greatly from massage therapy.

• At first you will likely be in shock which is your body's way of protecting you from the pain. Typically you won't be able to feel the extent of your injuries until the second day after the accident. Err on the side of caution and get checked out. In most cases, I advise going to the ER to get x-rays and get a general checkup to make sure there are no hidden injuries.
• Your auto insurance should pay for a trip to the ER and any treatments you need by a qualified massage therapist, chiropractor and/or acupuncturist (ideally starting therapeutic massage within the first 24-48 hours). That's the reason that you pay insurance premiums so it makes sense to use what you are paying for. If someone else may be liable, an attorney can help sort that out between the insurance companies.
• The sooner you can start self-care and treatment the quicker you will recover and decrease pain. The self-care that I advise is getting ice on the injured/affected areas as soon as possible to take down pain and inflammation.
• One of the more important steps you should take is to rest and try not to strain the injured areas. Try and keep moving after the accident but all movements should be as PAIN FREE as possible. Pain will cause the injury to react and will increase your recovery time.
• Keeping a daily "pain" journal is important when it comes time to settle with the insurance company. In this journal you should write down how the accident affects your life.
• Do not talk with either insurance company after the initial report. They will try and get you to settle to soon and you may not know the full impact of your injuries for up to six months. Tell them "I am currently seeking ongoing treatment for my injuries". That is all you have to say.
• Fill out our intake forms that are specially focused on our clients that are dealing with the effects of an auto accident. Auto Accident Intake Forms (PDF)