Most people have heard of whiplash; however, the term is often overused or misunderstood. When you have been diagnosed with whiplash, you might disregard it as a minor ailment that, although painful, will go away on its own. You might also be unsure about how to treat it, or even wonder if a chiropractor can help you.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is an injury of the neck that is the result of a fast, forceful back and forth movement of the neck and spine. To use an analogy, think about pulling back a live tree branch and then letting it go. It will spring back and forth. This is the kind of motion that typically causes whiplash.
Whiplash can happen from many different situations, including:
Car accident
Falling
Sports injuries
Outdoor activities
+ More
Structural injuries that can result from whiplash are:
Splinting of muscles
Restricted range of motions
Pulled tendons or ligaments
Proprioceptors damage
Nerve damage
Spinal disc damage
These injuries can cause symptoms such as:
Neck pain
Swelling and stiffness in the neck region
Severe headaches
Eye pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Ringing of the ears
Blurred vision
Sleeping disorders
Clouded memory
In general, the more severe the whiplash is, the more severe the symptoms will be. Whiplash should not always be treated as a minor injury because it can worsen other injuries or cause significant pain. A medical doctor should evaluate your symptoms and injuries before you take any steps for treatment. A chiropractor can work with your doctor after you have been diagnosed.
Chiropractic Care for Whiplash
Many people will choose to see a chiropractor for whiplash. A chiropractor offers non-invasive treatment that is safe, effective, and does not include strong painkillers. Through careful spinal adjustments, known as subluxations, chiropractic treatment can help to restore a person’s range of motion – something that is commonly hindered.
Once a person’s range of motion has been restored, the chiropractor can work on improving the nervous system. As this happens, communication between the body and nervous system is increased; thereby, speeding up the healing and recovery time. Chiropractic treatment can also reduce any tension that is placed on the neck region. Proprioceptors in the joints are also stimulated; thus, encouraging the body to reposition itself.
After a few sessions of chiropractic adjustments, the lymphatic flow of toxins held in the body may be improved. This too can heighten the healing process. In addition to adjustments, a chiropractor might advise the patient to use ice and heat at home. Certain exercises and stretches, as well as herbs like turmeric might be recommended.
Turn to Chiropractic Care
Whiplash is a painful injury and can take several weeks to heal from. It does not have to debilitate you. The good news is that a chiropractor can treat whiplash and reduce the pain and discomfort you may be in. To learn more about chiropractic treatment for whiplash, please call a clinic today for an initial exam with a chiropractor.