Were you involved in an auto accident that left you with neck pain and stiffness? You may be experiencing the symptoms of whiplash. These FAQs compiled by Health First Chiropractic in Puyallup, WA explain more about whiplash causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury commonly caused by trauma from auto collisions. The sudden impact of a collision causes your head to whip forward and back violently, straining neck muscles and connective tissues.
What are some common symptoms of whiplash?
Neck pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion are the most common symptoms of whiplash. Some people also experience headaches, dizziness, soreness, arm numbness, and fatigue due to loss of sleep.
Does whiplash occur only in serious auto crashes?
Contrary to what many people think, whiplash injuries often occur from minor rear-end collisions with vehicles traveling at 20 mph or less.
What damage can whiplash cause to your body?
Whiplash can cause muscle and tissue tears in your neck and dislocated joints and bones in your cervical spine. It can also cause herniated discs which can put pressure on spinal nerve roots, causing even more pain.
Why should I see a chiropractor for whiplash?
Chiropractic care specializes in treating musculoskeletal injuries like whiplash. Our chiropractor will examine your condition and recommend natural, drug-free chiropractic options for pain relief. Through chiropractic care, we can treat your pain and the source of your pain to help you heal.
How long do chiropractic treatments for whiplash take?
That depends on the extent of your injury. Initial treatment may call for adjustments several times a week. As your pain diminishes and you start to heal, your visits may go down to once a week. Once you’re pain-free, monthly adjustments can keep your system functioning properly.
What can happen if whiplash isn’t treated?
Like any other injury, whiplash symptoms may worsen if your condition is left untreated. Over time, you may develop chronic pain, stiffness, and soreness which take longer to heal. Whiplash symptoms can also lead to degenerative spinal issues.
How does chiropractic care help with whiplash pain relief?
Our chiropractor uses chiropractic adjustments to relieve pain and inflammation caused by muscle and tissue strains from your injury. Adjustments also put cervical joints and bones back into alignment to restore range of motion and mobility.
If your injury resulted in herniated discs, we’ll use spinal decompression to help this condition heal. Soft tissue massage and cold laser therapy are additional therapies that can help relieve pain and expedite healing.
Visit Our Puyallup, WA Chiropractor for Whiplash Treatment
To schedule a consultation for whiplash diagnosis and treatment, contact us at Health First Chiropractic in Puyallup, WA at (253) 256-4818.
