What Are the Best Stretches for Car Accident Injury Recovery?

Even the most minor fender bender can lead to an injury. If you’ve been in a car accident and have apparent injuries, the decision to visit a doctor is an obvious one. Unfortunately, there are other injuries that may not present themselves right away.

Visiting a chiropractor is essential after an accident, even if you think you feel fine. In addition to making sure you don’t have sustained hidden injuries that can cause problems later, they can suggest exercises and stretches to minimize the severity of potential pain. Here are some of the best stretches you can do to support your recovery after a car accident.

Seated Neck Release

Suffering from neck pain following a car accident? The Seated Neck Release targets the sides of your neck. Start by sitting on the floor in a cross-legged position. As you extend your right arm next to your right knee, place your left hand atop your head and tile your head to the left. As you gently apply pressure with your hand, increase the stretch for up to 30 seconds. Slowly release, then repeat the process on the other side.

Glute Bridge

The glute bridge helps relieve pain in your lower back while improving your posture at the same time. As you lie on your back with your hands at your side, feet flat on the ground, push your heels down to raise your hips off the ground. Your body should form a straight line from shoulder to knees. Remain in this position as long as it feels comfortable, then lower your hips back down.

Seated Clasping Neck Stretch

This stretch helps relieve some of the pain associated with injuries like whiplash. It pinpoints the back of your neck, while alleviating back muscle pain, too. As you sit on the floor or in a chair, clasp your hands and rest your palms on the back of the head. Grind your hips into the seat as you sit with a tall spine, then press your hands down toward your thighs. As you do so, tuck your chin into your chest. As you pull your head away from your shoulders, use the heels of your palms and press down to deepen the stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times daily.

Bird Dog

This simple core stretch helps relieve low back pain while promoting proper posture and improving range of motion. You’ll need an exercise mat to perform this stretch, and maybe a mirror to check your alignment.

Start by getting on your hands and knees, keeping your back parallel to the ground. Then, extend your left arm and your right leg, holding the position for 30 seconds. Make sure to engage your ab muscles to maintain a neutral spine. Slowly lower your arm and leg back into place, then repeat the process for the right arm and left leg.

Start Your Journey to Recovery After a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a wreck, getting a professional opinion from a trusted chiropractor is your first step toward recovery. Even if you think you haven’t been hurt, injuries can present themselves within a matter of weeks. Reach out to the team at Impact Medical Group of Lutz today at (813) 536-0373 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to recovery.