Whiplash is commonly described as a collection of symptoms that occur following damage to the neck due to sudden flexion and extension. These sudden motion strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range of motion. The discomfort in the neck may also involve surrounding muscles in the head, chest, shoulders, and arms.
The most common causes of this type of disorder are motor vehicle accidents, athletic injuries, falls, and assaults. In such collisions, the head is more likely to be unsupported which increases the risk for injuries. The classification of injury is referred to as whiplash associated disorder (WAD).
Whiplash injuries are responsible for long-term disability and increase the risk of future neck pain and other health problems. The pain may not appear immediately after an accident, but sometimes it may take hours or weeks to occur. Symptoms include stiff neck, neck pain, tingling or numbness, shoulder pain and stiffness, decreases range of neck motion, muscle spasms, headache, pain, numbness, or tingling extending down an arm.
Chiropractic care focuses on treating whiplash injuries, with the purpose of optimizing motion of the spine, treating spinal discs, reducing muscle spasm, and improving muscular strength. A chiropractor takes a look at the spine and joints to determine where the site of joint dysfunction and how it triggers the symptoms of whiplash. The treatment plan depends on your diagnosis. A chiropractor may use a certain type of spinal manipulation to improve joint motion and soft tissue function.
Some of the common chiropractic treatments for whiplash include spinal manipulation and muscle relaxation and/or stimulation. The techniques for spinal manipulation include specific spinal manipulation and flexion-distraction technique. Other treatments include trigger point therapy, instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy, interferential electrical stimulation, and ultrasound.
In addition to receiving chiropractic therapy for whiplash, ergonomic support accessories and ergonomic furniture may be provided to help improve the results of the treatment and restore the patient's health and well-being. The disorder can become serious if not treated in early stages. A combination of chiropractic treatments can help in reducing pain, increasing the range of motion of the neck and upper back, and speeding up the body's natural healing process.
A chiropractor may recommend a series of exercises and/or stretches to strengthen the weakened muscles in the neck and shoulders which are best to follow to achieve full restoration in mobility and good health. These provide full recovery from the dysfunctions brought by whiplash.
Dr. Ross Carter D.C.
Chief Wellness Consultant - Discover Family Wellness Center
1860 Duluth Hwy
Suite 103
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
(770) 817-4445 (770) 817-4445
Whiplash can be a serious problem and can lead to a lifetime disability. Ask your Lawrenceville GA chiropractor about it. Go to www.gentledr.com now!
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