From car accidents to slip-and-fall incidents, any kind of physical trauma can result in serious injuries that require medical attention.

And while traditional medical professionals like doctors and nurses provide invaluable help, they don’t always address all aspects of the recovery process – which is why many patients turn to chiropractors for assistance. 

Chiropractors specialize in treating musculoskeletal problems through manual manipulation, as well as massage therapy and other techniques to relieve pain and restore range of motion.

The good news is that most personal injury cases allow victims to seek reimbursement for expenses related to chiropractic treatments. However, whether or not your particular situation qualifies depends on several factors. So keep reading to learn more about whether chiropractic treatment is covered in a personal injury case!

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a form of health care that uses specialized techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems. It focuses on the relationship between your body’s structure, particularly the spine, and its function. 

This treatment offers hands-on manipulation and adjustment of muscles, ligaments, joints, and other soft tissues to restore normal movement and improve overall well-being.

Injuries That Benefit From Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is often used to treat chronic pain or injuries that affect movement in the body. So what types of injuries benefit from chiropractic care? Here are five. 

  • Back pain – Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to reduce back pain by releasing muscle tension and restoring joint mobility.
  • Neck pain – Through manipulations of the neck vertebrae, chiropractors can help relieve pain caused by whiplash or degenerative disc disease.
  • Joint pain – Many joint problems can be treated with special exercises and stretches prescribed by your chiropractor.
  •  Headaches and migraines – When misalignments cause headaches in the spine, a series of treatments from a qualified chiropractor may provide relief.
  • Sciatica – Compression of lower-back nerve roots causes sciatica; this problem can be relieved through targeted manipulation and adjustments to realign nerves and joints.

Are Chiropractic Services Covered in Personal Injury Cases?

Chiropractic services may be covered in personal injury cases if the injury is a result of the negligence of another person or entity. The extent to which chiropractic services are covered depends on the state’s laws and the settlement agreement’s terms. 

Generally, chiropractic services are covered in personal injury cases when they are deemed medically necessary and related to the injury suffered in the accident.

Sometimes, the insurance company representing the negligent party may pay for chiropractic services directly. In other cases, the injured party may be required to use their health insurance to cover the services. In either case, the settlement agreement will typically specify the extent to which chiropractic services are covered.

As you move forward into this process, consider seeking professional guidance if needed—it could save you time and energy down the line!

How to Prove Chiropractic Care is Medically Necessary

Proving the medical necessity for chiropractic care in a personal injury case requires a comprehensive medical record and an in-depth understanding of the medical diagnosis. 

The medical record should include a detailed medical history and any medical imaging conducted. In addition, the medical records should include the results of any diagnostic tests and a provider’s opinion of the necessity of chiropractic care.

Your attorney should use your medical records to document the pain and suffering you have endured due to the personal injury. This should include any physical or mental limitations you may have experienced due to the personal injury.

Your attorney can also use expert testimony to explain the necessity of chiropractic care in your case. The expert could explain the medical benefits of chiropractic care and why chiropractic care is medically necessary for your injury.

How to File a Personal Injury Claim With a Chiropractor

Here are a few steps you can take to successfully file a personal injury claim with chiropractic expenses. 

  1. Gather all medical records related to your injury, including those from your chiropractor.
  2. Collect evidence that may assist your claims, such as photos of the accident and witness statements
  3. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney and explain your case.
  4. File a claim with the insurance company, if applicable.
  5. Negotiate with the insurance company to obtain a settlement that covers all costs associated with your chiropractic care.
  6. If a settlement is not reached, take your case to court.
  7. Receive your settlement and use it to cover your chiropractic expenses.

Ultimately, if your injuries require chiropractic care, you are entitled to compensation for those damages. 

Get what’s rightfully yours—contact our team at Injury.io today.