Auto accidents happen, and unfortunately, neck and other spinal injuries may result from them. Neck and spinal injuries that occur are more commonly known as, "Whiplash Injuries".
What is a Whiplash Injury?
"Whiplash is a neck and / or other spinal injury due to a forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, and other parts of the spine- it's just like the cracking of a whip". (1)
"Whiplash is commonly caused by rear-end accidents, but can occur in any type of auto accident. It can also result from sports injuries, physical abuse, exercise, work injuries, and other types of traumas, such as a fall. Whiplash may be called a neck and / or other spinal sprain or strain, but these terms also include other types of neck and back injuries". (1)
It is important to mention that whiplash and other injuries to the body can occur even when there is little to know damage to your vehicle. In fact, many people feel they are fine immediately after an accident, but then they feel the onset of pain and other symptoms sometimes after 2-3 days, or even longer.
What are Some Symptoms of Whiplash or Other Injuries Caused from an Auto Accident?
"Symptoms of whiplash most often start within days of the injury. They may include:
1. Neck, mid-back, and / or lower back pain and stiffness.
2. Pain that gets worse with neck, mid-back, or lower back movements.
3. Loss of range of motion in the neck, mid-back, and lower back.
4. Headaches, most often starting at the base of the skull.
5. Tenderness or pain in the shoulders, upper back, arms, hips, or legs.
6. Tingling or numbness in any of the other spinal areas, arms, or legs.
7. Tiredness.
8. Dizziness.
9. Nausea.
10. Lightheadedness.
Some people may also experience:
1. Blurred vision
2. Ringing in the ears, or also known as, "tinnitus".
3. Trouble sleeping, or also known as, "insomnia".
4. Crankiness
5. Trouble focusing
6. Memory problems
7. Depression " (1)
When to See a Chiropractor
You can make an appointment with a qualified Chiropractor if you have "neck pain, or other whiplash symptoms following an auto accident, sports injury, or any other types of injuries. It's important to get a quick diagnosis. This is to rule out the broken bones, or other damage that can cause or worsen symptoms". (1)
In some cases, without treatment, patients may have a full recovery from their injuries. However, many experience longer term issues, such as chronic pain, and tension, if they don't seek treatment. Chronic pain and tension may happen when injuries don't heal correctly, due to not getting the appropriate treatment. Chronic pain and tension can lead to a decreased quality of life, and affect your wellbeing.
Chiropractic care has been shown to be very effective in treating whiplash and other injuries. Please contact the clinic if you have any further questions!
References
2/ Whiplash: A Patient's Guide to Recovery. Author: Arthur C. Croft, DC, M.Sc, MPH, FACO
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