The 3 Phases of Healing After a Car Accident (And How Chiropractic Helps at Each Stage)

Posted on October 9, 2025

Recovering from a car accident is a process that takes time, patience, and proper care. Your body goes through several distinct healing phases as it works to repair damaged tissues and restore normal function. Understanding these stages can help you achieve a smoother, more complete recovery.
 

Phase 1: The Acute Inflammatory Phase

The first stage of healing begins immediately after your injury and typically lasts for about 72 hours. During this phase, your body responds to trauma by increasing blood flow and triggering inflammation. This natural defense mechanism helps clear out damaged cells and debris while your immune system begins repairing the affected area.
 

It’s common to experience stiffness, swelling, and discomfort during this stage. Chiropractic adjustments can help minimize inflammation, improve mobility, and promote better circulation to accelerate your body’s natural healing process.
 

Phase 2: The Repair Phase

Within 48 hours, your body transitions into the repair phase, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to over a month depending on the severity of your injuries. Soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons begin to rebuild as new collagen fibers form to support the damaged structures.
 

Regular chiropractic visits during this phase are especially important. Gentle adjustments and therapeutic exercises can help guide your healing tissues to align properly, prevent scar tissue buildup, and restore strength and flexibility. This ensures your body heals correctly and minimizes the risk of chronic pain later on.
 

Phase 3: The Remodeling Phase

The final stage of recovery can last up to 12 months or longer in more severe cases. During this time, your body continues to refine and strengthen the repaired tissues. Collagen fibers reorganize to improve durability and restore full functionality.
 

Chiropractic care plays a key role in this phase by helping maintain joint alignment, promoting proper movement patterns, and preventing compensations that can lead to future pain or re-injury.
 

Personalized Recovery at Accident and Injury Chiropractic

At Accident and Injury Chiropractic, your first visit includes a complimentary consultation where we discuss your injuries and perform range of motion assessments. These evaluations help our doctors determine the extent of your injuries and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific recovery timeline. Our goal is to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the quality of life you deserve as quickly and safely as possible.
 

If you’ve recently been in a car accident, don’t wait to get the care you need. Schedule your complimentary consultation at Accident and Injury Chiropractic and take the first step toward recovery. Visit our office in Tacoma, Washington, or call (253) 215-8350 today.