Whiplash

The classic cause of whiplash is the rear-end automobile accident.  In a rear end collision, the victim's car is first pushed forward and then, because their foot is either on the brake or they hit the car in front, the victim's car is quickly slowed down.  At first, the body is pushed forward but the head stays behind.  This causes the muscles and ligaments of the neck to be stretched or torn.  A properly positioned head rest can lessen some of this movement, but in most cases, the damage is done before the head even hits the head rest.

For some accident victims, the symptoms of whiplash can take several weeks or months to appear.  A person who has immediate symptoms is actually lucky because they are more likely to seek treatment. Whiplash symptoms consist of a stiff neck, neck pain, persistent headaches, irritability, shoulder pain, difficulty swallowing, blurred vision, ringing ears, nausea, dizziness, and vertigo.  Victims may experience burning pain, prickling or tingling.

Studies have found that chiropractic adjustments to the neck resulted in significant improvements and outcomes for patients with whiplash injuries.  Early activity and mobilization (chiropractic adjustment) were more effective in treating whiplash than standard medical treatment consisting of rest and a soft collar.

Research has clearly shown that chiropractic care is effective for the care of whiplash injuries and is more effective than other forms of care.  If you suspect you may have sustained a whiplash injury from a car accident, or from any significant blow to your body, you should schedule a chiropractic checkup.