Portland Car Accident Chiropractor

Physical Exam by a Chiropractor or Medical Doctor

When seeking a physical exam, both chiropractors and medical doctors have different approaches. A chiropractor will typically focus on spinal adjustments and soft tissue manipulation to improve musculoskeletal function and alleviate pain.

They may also provide lifestyle and ergonomic advice. Medical doctors, on the other hand, will conduct a more comprehensive assessment, including a thorough physical exam, medical history review, and possibly ordering diagnostic tests.

They can provide a more holistic approach, addressing underlying health issues as well.

It is crucial to seek a comprehensive assessment from a medical doctor before pursuing specialized care from a chiropractor. This will ensure that any underlying health conditions are identified and properly addressed before proceeding with chiropractic care. It will also help in ruling out any serious injuries or medical conditions that may require immediate attention.

After an accident, consider the severity of your injuries, any pre-existing health conditions, and your overall health goals when deciding whether to seek a physical exam from a chiropractor or medical doctor. If you have minor aches and pains, a chiropractor may be sufficient.

However, if you have more serious injuries, or if you are unsure of the extent of your injuries, it’s best to seek a thorough assessment from a medical doctor first.

Range of Motion Tests Performed by a Physical Therapist or Chiropractor

Range of motion tests performed by a physical therapist or chiropractor include evaluating spinal flexibility and joint mobility. These tests typically involve assessing the ability of the patient to move their spine in different directions such as forward flexion, backward extension, side bending, and rotation. Joint mobility tests may include assessing the range of motion in the shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles.

X-Ray or Other Imaging Exams to Detect Fractures and Soft Tissue Injuries

Scheduling an X-ray or other imaging exam to detect fractures and soft tissue injuries usually involves a referral from a healthcare provider.

Once scheduled, the typical preparation involves wearing comfortable clothing and removing any metal objects that may interfere with the imaging.

During the procedure, the patient will be positioned by a technician and may be asked to hold their breath for a moment to ensure clear images. After the exam, follow-up care may involve waiting for the results and consulting with a healthcare provider for further treatment.

Common imaging techniques used for detecting fractures and soft tissue injuries include X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasound. X-rays are often used to detect fractures and bone injuries, while MRIs are better for visualizing soft tissues like ligaments and tendons. CT scans can provide detailed images of bones and soft tissues, and ultrasound is useful for detecting soft tissue injuries in real-time.

Pain Medication Prescribed to Relieve Discomfort from Injury

Pain medication prescribed for injury relief often includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and sometimes opioid-based medications for more severe pain.

These drugs work to reduce inflammation and block pain signals in the body. While they are effective for short-term relief, long-term use can lead to potential side effects such as stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and dependency on opioid drugs.

In certain situations, pain medication may be necessary to manage discomfort from an injury, especially during the acute phase of recovery. However, alternative methods of pain relief can also be utilized in conjunction with medication, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness techniques. These methods can help reduce the need for long-term use of medication and provide a holistic approach to managing pain.

It’s important to weigh the benefits and risks of using pain medication for injury relief, and to work with a healthcare provider to find the most effective and safest treatment plan.