New Research Highlights Impact of Motor Vehicle Accidents on Neck Movement and the Role of Chiropractic Care

A groundbreaking new paper, " Investigating the Correlation Between Translational Movement of Cervical Vertebrae and Motor Vehicle Trauma: A Comprehensive Research Study," authored by Todd J. Cielo, DC and Jeff Bourguignon, DC, has been published in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research (Volume 2024, Pages 98-107).  This study examines how the sudden, involuntary movements that occur during car accidents affect neck health and function, and how chiropractic care can help address the resulting issues.

The primary goal of the research was to investigate the relationship between the translational movement of cervical vertebrae—essentially the sliding of vertebrae past each other—and trauma caused by motor vehicle accidents. The study aimed to determine whether specific patterns of this vertebral movement correlated with the severity and long-term outcomes of the trauma. To conduct this research, the authors performed a retrospective chart review, analyzing the medical records of 7,500 patients who had experienced motor vehicle accidents and sustained neck injuries.

Using advanced imaging techniques and biomechanical analysis according to American Medical Association (AMA) guidelines, the study measured vertebral motion and ligamentous injuries in the cervical spine. The findings concluded that sudden, involuntary movements from MVAs could lead to significant ligament damage, resulting in abnormal vertebral translation. These shifts often cause pain, stiffness, and impaired nerve function, highlighting the vital role chiropractic care can play in correcting these structural shifts.

The nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body, and structural shifts in the spine—known as vertebral subluxations—can obstruct nerve function, causing widespread issues throughout the body. Chiropractic care focuses on identifying and correcting these subluxations, which are often the result of trauma, such as that experienced in motor vehicle accidents. By removing the structural shifts, chiropractors can improve nerve supply, alleviate pain, and restore normal function to the spine and nervous system.

This study reinforces the importance of early intervention following a motor vehicle accident. Chiropractors use non-invasive methods to address vertebral misalignments, reducing nerve interference and helping the body heal itself naturally. Chiropractic adjustments improve overall spinal health and prevent chronic conditions from developing, making them an essential component of care for MVA-related injuries.

For more information, please refer to the full article: “Investigating the Correlation Between Translational Movement of Cervical Vertebrae and Motor Vehicle Trauma: A Comprehensive Research Study,” published in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, Volume 2024.

Matthew McCoy, DC, MPH
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research
Website: [www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com]
Email: drmatthewmccoy@gmail.com
Phone: 404.247.2550