Whiplash

The spine and supportive soft tissue of the neck are affected when the head is quickly thrown from back to front during a car accident or other physical trauma. When the muscle is overstretched, there may be microtearing in the muscle fibers. If the fibers do not heal properly, scar tissue can build and cause the affected muscles to shorten in length. As this process continues, it can lead to arthritic changes, possible disc degeneration, as well as neurological impairments. After whiplash and impact, our doctors may recognize these results

  • Disc bulges and herniation
  • Subluxations (misalignment of the vertebrae in the spine)
  • Injured bones in the spine
  • Irritated and damaged nerves
  • Pulled ligaments and muscles in the neck

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF WHIPLASH?

Whiplash injuries might present as mild to severe. Your headrest in your car has an influence on the injury and severity. The injury can be more significant when your headrest is positioned too low. Tissue damage, or broken bones may be a possibility from intense impact or placement of headrest. We highly recommend that you consult with a chiropractor and receive a thorough examination and x-rays. The following may be symptoms you are subject to experience even if the impact felt mild:

  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder, upper back, and arm pain
  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Pain when turning the head
  • Inability to move or turn the head fully
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, and fingers
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Depression

Although you may have been cleared by a doctor, your pain may still be related to whiplash and to heal the injury seeking out treatment could be the best solution. It is important to get your spine checked as soon as possible following an accident or trauma. At Summit Chiropractic we want to ensure whiplash does not develop into a long term injury.

 

 

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