Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck from a sudden jerking or “whipping” of the head following a sudden acceleration-deceleration force that causes unrestrained, rapid forward and backward movement of the head and neck, most commonly from motor vehicle accidents. Whiplash is usually the result of a rear impact while in a stationary position but can happen during sport injury or during a fall. This type of motion strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range of motion and the vertebrae become misaligned. Whiplash is a relatively common injury that is often ignored until it is too late and the symptoms become chronic. Fortunately, whiplash is typically not a life threatening injury, but it can lead to a prolonged period of partial disability. If you visit the emergency room, you may be given a clean bill of health because you don’t have any broken bones. You might get a prescription to reduce the muscle spasms caused by structural changes in your neck or lower back.
Whiplash Injury Symptoms: Cervical spine pain (neck pain), neck stiffness, lower back pain, headaches, shoulder pain and stiffness, dizziness, fatigue, jaw pain (temporomandibular joint symptoms), arm pain, arm weakness, back injury, numbness and tingling, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), back pain, stiff neck, depression, anxiety anger, frustration, anxiety, stress, drug dependency, post-traumatic stress syndrome, sleep disturbance (insomnia).
Whiplash Injury Treatment:
1. Physical, Neurological, Orthopedic & Chiropractic Exam to help find out what is wrong with you
2. Studies may include X-rays, MRI and/or CAT Scans to check for fractures, disc herniations and vertebral misalignments also known as subluxations
3. Ice – 20 min. on and 60 min. off (repeat as much as possible) to reduce inflammation
4. Rest – with good posture to all allow soft tissue a chance to heal
5. Practice Good Biomechanics in order to not put excessive stress on healing tissue
6. Chiropractic Care – Specific Gonstead Chiropractic Adjustments help to realign misaligned spinal vertebrae (vertebral subluxations) that could be causing nerve pressure and can lead to pain and dysfunction.
7. High Power Laser Therapy – increases the rate of healing; decreases scar tissue, swelling, and pain
8. Active Release Technique – used to help return spinal muscles to their proper length
9. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises – to help regain flexibility, muscular strength and endurance in order to avoid future setbacks.
Whiplash Injury Treatment should occur immediately following the accident to limit chronic problems. While most people involved in minor motor vehicle accidents recover quickly without any chronic symptoms, some continue to experience symptoms for years after the injury. That is why it is important to get examined as soon as possible. Many symptoms will take days or even weeks to come on following an accident. We are trained to properly evaluate your soft tissue injuries, spinal biomechanics and we have proven rehabilitation strategies. We do accept private insurance, auto insurance and attorney liens. Whether it was a small fender bender or a severe car accident you need people who know how to work with lawyers and insurance companies. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us today.
