Whiplash

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is the term applied to injuries where the neck is rapidly jolted into flexion and then extension, creating a whip-like movement. Whiplash is most commonly seen in people involved in auto accidents, but it can also result from sports injuries, falls, workplace accidents, and other traumatic incidents.

Due to their complex nature and extensive impact on peoples’ daily lives, few topics in health care are discussed as frequently as whiplash injuries. Unlike broken bones or other traumatic injuries, whiplash injuries usually involve an unpredictable combination of nervous system, muscle, joint and connective tissue disorders. Because of this, whiplash is commonly misunderstood and can be confusing for patients.

The soft, cushioning discs that occupy the space between the spinal bones can herniate or rupture. Symptoms may take hours, days or weeks to appear.

Symptoms Of Whiplash

  • Neck Pain and Stiffness
  • Worsening of Pain With Neck Movement
  • Loss of Range of Motion In The Neck
  • Headaches, Most Often Starting at The Base of The Skull
  • Tenderness or Pain In The Shoulder, Upper Back or Arms
  • Tingling or Numbness In The Arms

Some People Also Experience

  • Blurred Vision
  • Ringing In The Ears (Tinnitus)
  • Sleep Disturbances
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty Concentrating
  • Memory Problems
  • Depression

Causes Of Whiplash

  • Auto Accidents. Rear-End Collisions Are The Most Common Cause Of Whiplash
  • Physical Abuse Or Assault. Whiplash May Also Result From Incidents Of Being Punched Or
  • Shaken Baby Syndrome.Whiplash Is One Of The Injuries Sustained In Shaken Baby Syndrome
  • Contact Sports. Football Tackles And Other Sports-Related Collisions Can Sometimes Cause whiplash Injuries

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

The good news is that chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat many of the conditions caused by whiplash and studies have repeatedly shown that the most effective treatment for whiplash injuries is a combination of chiropractic care and soft tissue rehabilitation. At Charlotte Chiropractic Center, we will perform a thorough history and physical examination, order x-rays or other imaging tests if necessary, treat the spine and soft tissues as indicated, and instruct you in proper home care for rehabilitation.

More than 1 million people suffer whiplash injuries every year. Though most minor whiplash injuries heal within six to nine months, without proper chiropractic treatment and soft tissue rehabilitation more than 20% of those who suffer from whiplash injuries continue to suffer from pain, weakness or restricted movement two years after their accident.