A slip, trip, or fall can place sudden stress on the muscles, joints, ligaments, and spine. Even when there is no obvious injury, the force of landing or trying to catch yourself can affect multiple areas of the body and lead to pain or stiffness that develops later.

Key Insight:

Pain after a fall does not always come from the area that directly hit the ground. Twisting, bracing, or reaching to stop the fall can also injure the neck, back, shoulders, wrists, hips, or knees. A comprehensive evaluation can help identify the structures involved and determine appropriate care.

Common injuries after a fall include muscle strains, ligament sprains, joint irritation, bruising, and injuries to the extremities. Falls can also cause fractures or head injuries, particularly when the impact is significant.

Symptoms may include neck or back pain, headaches, stiffness, reduced range of motion, muscle tenderness, or difficulty performing normal activities. Some symptoms may become more noticeable hours or days after the fall.

A chiropractic examination can assess range of motion, joint function, strength, orthopedic findings, and neurological function. When clinically indicated, diagnostic imaging may be recommended to evaluate for fractures or other injuries before beginning treatment.

When serious injury has been excluded and conservative care is appropriate, chiropractic treatment may include joint mobilization or manipulation, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercise, stretching, and rehabilitation. Treatment should be individualized according to the patient's injury, symptoms, and examination findings.

Falls involving a head impact, loss of consciousness, severe or worsening headache, significant weakness or numbness, inability to bear weight, deformity, or severe pain require prompt medical evaluation.

If pain or stiffness develops after a fall, an early evaluation can help determine the cause and establish an appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plan.

Recently experienced a fall? Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and discuss an individualized treatment plan.

Contact Us:
Dr. Peter Britton, DC & Dr. Alyssa Lenox, DC
1111 N. Northgate Way
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-523-2225
Appointments can be made on our website: https://intouchwithhealthseattle.com/home

Sources:

• American College of Radiology. ACR Appropriateness Criteria: Acute Spinal Trauma.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Older Adult Fall Prevention.

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Sports Injuries and Musculoskeletal Injuries.