Whiplash is a common injury resulting from rapid back-and-forth
neck motion. It is a common phenomenon that occurs from a sudden impact or
acceleration-deceleration force resulting from car accidents, sports activities
or falls. The result can be significant pain, stiffness, and mobility issues in
the neck and upper back, affecting overall quality of life.
With the availability of exclusivetreatment of accidents in Charlotte, NC, and elsewhere, chiropractic care
has emerged as an effective way to manage whiplash injuries.
This post explores whiplash in detail, its symptoms, and how
chiropractic care can play a crucial role in its treatment and recovery.
Understanding Whiplash
It is a soft tissue injury that may impair the muscles, tendons,
ligaments, and other supportive structures in the neck and upper back. The
injury occurs when the head suddenly jerks forward and backward or sideways,
causing the neck to hyperextend and then flex rapidly. This sudden motion
strains and damages the soft tissues, leading to pain, inflammation, and
dysfunction.
Symptoms of Whiplash
It may take some time for whiplash symptoms to appear after an
injury and might take a few hours or days to manifest. The common symptoms are
as follows:
Stiffness & Pain
In Neck
The most prominent symptom of whiplash is neck pain and
stiffness. The affected area may get tender to touch, and moving the neck can
exacerbate the discomfort. However, the impact can extend beyond the neck,
causing pain and discomfort in the shoulders and upper back.
Frequent Headaches
Whiplash often causes headaches, which can range from mild to
severe. These headaches may originate from the base of the skull and radiate
toward the forehead. It may end up in the feeling of dizziness and fatigue.
Lowered Range Of Motion
Whiplash can limit the movement of the neck, making it difficult
to turn or tilt the head entirely. This restricted range of motion can affect
daily activities and overall functionality.
Chiropractic Care for Whiplash
Here's how chiropractic care can help in the management of
whiplash:
Comprehensive Evaluation
A chiropractor typically runs a thorough examination to assess
the extent of the whiplash injury. The chiropractor can create a personalized
treatment plan by understanding the specific damage and affected areas.
Spinal Adjustments
Chiropractors are known for their expertise in spinal
adjustments or manipulations. For whiplash patients, chiropractors may adjust
the cervical spine (neck) and upper back to restore proper alignment and
function.
Soft Tissue Therapy
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may employ soft
tissue therapies to address muscle tension and promote healing with massage,
myofascial release, and trigger point therapy.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Chiropractors Often Recommend Specific Exercises And Stretches
To Rehabilitate The Injured Area. These Exercises Are Designed To Increase
Strength, Improve Flexibility, And Restore Range Of Motion.
End Note
The main aim of chiropractic care is to identify and treat
musculoskeletal disorders, including whiplash injuries. Chiropractors are
trained to assess the spine, joints, and soft tissues to identify areas of
dysfunction and provide targeted treatments.
If you are interested in exclusive
treatment of accidents in Charlotte, NC contact the Accident & Injury
Center.
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