Whiplash Treatment
Whiplash is most commonly the result of a bumper to bumper collision. A whiplash injury can lead to significant neck pain and discomfort; in addition, it is critical to closely monitor your symptoms after a whiplash injury to watch for signs of a traumatic brain injury.
If there are no signs of brain injury, it is still important to receive chiropractic care early to ensure your neck pain is treated and you are able to retain your neck’s complete range of motion without discomfort.
Whether you sustain a car accident injury or sports related injury, whiplash can generate serious discomfort and stiffness. In order to maintain a happy, active and fulfilling life, it’s critical to obtain a professional medical perspective of your injuries and treatment options.
What Causes Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the head is thrusted quickly either back and forth or forwards and then backwards. Whiplash injuries are most common among car accident victims. The force generated from a car accident forces the head to switch quickly from a rested position to a whipping back and forth motion. As most accidents are a surprise, the neck is completely relaxed and unprepared for the oncoming whipping movement. This violent and often unexpected shaking strains the spine and the muscles and tendons within the neck.
Diagnosing Whiplash
Whiplash can often be self-diagnosed by patients that experience the violent whipping motion followed by neck pain and stiffness. However, it is important to see a chiropractor to have your neck and head examined to establish the full extent of your injuries. A chiropractor will perform physical tests to monitor your pain and range of motion. If the chiropractor sees an indication of further underlying injuries, scans may be conducted to provide the much-needed insight into the condition of your spine, skull and brain.
Working with a chiropractor is a unique experience. You will never be rushed out of a chiropractor’s office. Because chiropractic care hinges upon providing sustainable relief to injuries at their source rather than the guess and check work of physicians, all chiropractors take time to listen to their patients.
Treating Whiplash Pain and Discomfort
Most whiplash injuries will heal on their own. In order to accelerate your recovery, you should get plenty of rest and use a series of ice and heat to either reduce swelling or improve stiffness.
A chiropractor can utilize their hands to manipulate the neck to loosen up tight muscles. If any misalignments are present, chiropractic adjustments can ensure proper posture and spine alignment. Physical rehabilitation can also ensure a fast and complete recovery from your neck pain caused by whiplash.
Continued Care
Once you receive a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition and any significant complications have been stabilized, physical rehabilitation can help ensure that your neck regains its full range of motion and strength. Your neck is required to bend and twist to monitor your surroundings as you walk, drive, run errands, etc. Working with a chiropractor and physical therapist will provide you with the stretches and exercises you need to quickly and progressively recover from a whiplash injury.
Don’t let your whiplash symptoms lead to chronic neck pain. Get the peace of mind of proactive and effective chiropractic care by calling our Dallas chiropractors’ office at (972) 252-7246.