ACUPUNCTURE FOR
ICBC INJURIES
A holistic therapy involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and promote emotional healing, providing a transformative path toward recovery.
Don’t let your motor vehicle injuries hold you back any longer, take control of your recovery and book an appointment today.
Acupuncture after a Car Accident
Accidents are traumatic, both emotionally and physically. Whether it’s the shock of the event or the injuries sustained, recovering from a car accident can be a daunting journey. One of the holistic approaches that many are turning to for relief is acupuncture. Here we will walk you through what an acupuncture session might look like if you’ve had a car accident and how Westcoast SCI Port Coquitlam can guide you through this transformative process.
What is Acupuncture?
Before we dive into the specifics of an acupuncture session post-accident, it’s essential to understand the basics of this age-old therapy. Originating in ancient China, acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to correspond with various energy pathways or “meridians.” The primary goal of acupuncture is to balance the body’s energy flow or Qi, alleviate pain, and promote healing.
What is covered when I get in a Car Accident?
Within the 12 weeks following your motor vehicle accident, you are automatically pre-approved for the following:
| Type of Service | Number of Pre-Approved Sessions |
| Physiotherapy | 25 sessions |
| Kinesiology Active Rehab | 12 sessions |
| Acupuncture | 12 sessions |
|
Other healthcare providers beyond Westcoast SCI that are also pre-approved (including chiropractors, registered massage therapists, psychologists and clinical counsellors) |
Please contact these providers should you have further questions. |
Anyone sustaining a motor vehicle accident in BC who has ICBC insurance is qualified for care, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This also includes a pedestrian or bicyclist struck by a vehicle. Our Physiotherapy, Kinesiology and Acupuncture services are 100% covered by your ICBC insurance. If you were a pedestrian or a cyclist, you will be covered by the insurance of the motorist who struck you.
Your team consisting of your physiotherapist, kinesiologist and acupuncturist will stay in communication with your ICBC case manager (or legal representative if you choose that route) to provide progress reports, treatment extension requests, and any other documents required to ensure a smooth and stress-free recovery.
Benefits of Acupuncture after a Car Accident
Pain Management
One of the most immediate benefits of acupuncture is pain relief. By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Improved Range of Motion
For those who experience stiffness or reduced mobility post-accident, acupuncture can help increase the range of motion by relaxing muscles and enhancing circulation.
Reduction in Inflammation
Inflammation is a common aftermath of injuries. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, promoting faster healing.
Emotional Healing
The trauma of a car accident isn’t just physical. Acupuncture can help balance the body’s energy, reducing anxiety and stress associated with the accident.
Initial Assessment and Evaluation
When you first arrive at Westcoast SCI Port Coquitlam for your acupuncture session, our acupuncturist will begin with an in-depth consultation. This allows them to understand the extent of your injuries, pain areas, and any other concerns you might have. It’s crucial to discuss the specifics of the car accident, such as the impact’s angle, your position in the car, and the immediate symptoms you experienced. This detailed history will help the practitioner tailor the session to your unique needs.
Developing a Customized Treatment Plan
Every car accident is different, and the injuries sustained can vary widely from whiplash to more severe musculoskeletal issues. After understanding your medical history and current concerns, the acupuncturist will develop a tailored treatment plan. This plan aims to address pain points, improve energy flow, and accelerate recovery.
What does an ICBC Acupuncture session look like?
As you settle onto a comfortable treatment table, the ambiance will likely be serene with soft lighting and possibly calming music. This environment helps foster relaxation, making the experience more effective.
The practitioner will start by cleaning the areas of the body where the needles will be inserted. Though the idea of needles might sound daunting, most patients describe the sensation as a mild prick or tingling. Depending on your specific needs, the acupuncturist will leave the needles in place for anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes even more depending upon your needs.
During this time, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience a deep sense of relaxation or even drift off to sleep. This is a testament to the therapy’s ability to promote a state of balance and tranquility.
Post-Session Guidance
After your acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will provide guidance on aftercare. This might include recommendations for follow-up sessions, complementary therapies, or exercises to enhance the benefits of the acupuncture treatment. Remember, the healing process after a car accident is often multifaceted, and acupuncture serves as one part of a broader recovery strategy.
Serving Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam & Port Moody Areas
A car accident is undoubtedly a challenging event to navigate. But with the right care and holistic approaches like acupuncture, recovery can be a transformative journey. Places like Westcoast SCI Port Coquitlam are dedicated to offering these healing modalities, guiding patients towards a brighter, pain-free future. Whether you’re grappling with the physical or emotional aftermath of an accident, consider giving acupuncture a try. The road to healing might just be a few needle pricks away.
Our Medical Acupuncturist
