Traditional medical treatment is oftentimes enough to aid in the healing process for injuries sustained in a car accident. But some people also benefit from alternative treatments such as medical massage, chiropractic care and acupuncture. However, it’s a good idea to first check with a doctor to be sure alternative treatment won’t interfere with other treatment. Auto insurance will cover these costs.
Alternative Treatments Sought after Car Accident: Medical Massage
Most people think of relaxation when they hear the word massage. But medical massage is a specialized kind of treatment for those who have suffered physical trauma in an accident. It’s oftentimes done in conjunction with other treatments prescribed by a physician such as medication and physical therapy.
This alternative type of treatment is generally designed to reduce pain and inflammation, improve range of motion, and/or promote blood circulation. Discuss with your doctor whether you qualify and if you may benefit from this treatment before seeking it.
Alternative Treatments Sought after Car Accident: Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is many times sought to treat soft tissue injuries, such as to the neck and back. Even after a small fender-bender that leaves an individual feeling sore, minor injuries could result in medical problems such as:
- muscle stiffness;
- fatigue;
- numbness; and
- arthritis.
Some of these symptoms may not present themselves until weeks or months after the accident. Chiropractors utilize a variety of techniques to promote healing.
It’s also a more natural option that accident victims who don’t want to take prescription pain medication should review with their doctor. Even if painkillers are taken initially in order to provide immediate relief from pain, many people turn to chiropractic care to avoid using them long-term.
This alternative type of treatment oftentimes includes putting the musculoskeletal system back into alignment. Chiropractic care may also help improve range of motion.
Alternative Treatments Sought after Car Accident: Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses thin needles inserted at varying depths at certain points on the body. Practitioners believe it may increase blood circulation and decrease inflammation, both important components in the recovery process. They also believe it can help reduce pain and stiffness throughout the body.
Acupuncture has been used to treat an assortment of car accident injuries such as:
- headaches;
- muscle spasms; and
- back pain.
Recovery of Costs for Alternative Treatments
New York residents are required to use their own auto insurance policy to pay for accident-related costs. No matter who was responsible for the crash, medical expenses are covered by the individual’s insurance policy because of the state’s no-fault system. Therefore, it’s important to verify with your insurer if alternative treatments are covered.
In some cases however, an injured person may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against another driver, such as if they suffer serious injuries or no-fault insurance does not cover the full extent of medical treatment. In these cases, claimants must establish that the other party was at fault for the accident and must establish that they suffered injuries.
It’s important to seek legal counsel when an accident has resulted in severe injuries. A lawyer can help claimants explore their legal options and whether they may be able to recover compensation for their damages, and alternative treatments like those mentioned above.
Contact Gacovino, Lake & Associates to review your legal options based on the details of your case, and whether your treatment is covered by insurance. Call us at 800-550-0000 or contact us online to set up your appointment with an attorney.
