What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a generalized term for the symptoms typically seen after a traumatic injury to the neck. Whiplash is most commonly seen after car accidents, however, any abrupt jerking motion of the head backwards or forwards can cause whiplash. No whiplash patient is ever the same, whiplash can vary from can damage vertebral nerve, intervertebral joints, cervical discs, ligaments, and cervical muscles. Many people who suffer from a neck injury do not initially seek treatment as symptoms can be delayed up to a few days after the initial accident.
Whiplash Symptoms:
- Headache
- Neck pain
- Neck Stiffness
- Shoulder pain
- Peripheral Nephropathy
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Lower Back Pain
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Difficulty Remembering
Whiplash Treatment:
MRI imaging and CT scans can help identify specific tissue damage which can assist in creating a more specific plan of treatment. The current recommendation is to avoid restricting the neck in a cervical collar, as was one the standard. Now doctors recommend keeping the injury on ice for at least a day after the accident, and then incorporating gentle neck exercises to help stabilize the area. For the best results continuous treatment with a Physical Therapist or Chiropractor is highly suggested. Chiropractors can increase mobility and circulation to the injured area to help increase circulation and reduce inflammation around the injured area. Chiropractic adjustments can further facilitate healing by realigning vertebrae that may have been impacted after trauma.
Other treatment options:
- Heat
- Ultrasound Therapy
- Ice
- Massage
- Cortisone injections
- Pain medication
Exercises for whiplash:
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3700 Thomas Rd. Suite 207
Santa Clara, CA 95054
