Whiplash Fast Facts

Whiplash Fast Facts

Did you know…

• There are many ways, besides car accidents to get whiplash? Car accidents are the most common cause of whiplash, but they can also occur due to a slip and fall or playing a high impact sport like football.
• It doesn’t take much force for whiplash to occur? Whiplash injuries can occur at speeds as low as 5-10 mph. While cars may be built to sustain the force of another vehicle, our bodies are not. The severity of the injury depends on if you were properly restrained, so be sure to always wear your seatbelt!
• Symptoms are not always immediate & go beyond just neck pain? Although you may feel fine after an accident, it may actually take hours, days, or even weeks for symptoms to develop. Neck and shoulder pain are the most common symptoms related to whiplash injuries, however, other symptoms may include:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty swallowing, concentrating, or sleeping
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
• The risk of whiplash injuries increases with age? As we get older, our movement becomes more limited, our muscles lose flexibility and strength, and our ligaments aren’t as stretchy. So when our neck whips back and forth during an accident, there’s more potential for damage. Additionally, the elderly and people who already have neck problems (such as arthritis) may experience more serious whiplash injuries.
• Chiropractic care can help? We manage whiplash injuries with careful and precise neck adjustments. Sometimes, ice and rehabilitative exercises are used to address the injured neck, shoulder muscles, and joints. The goal of chiropractic care is to restore spinal movement; improving function while decreasing pain and inflammation.

 

We always recommend that you come into the office immediately for an examination if you have been involved in an accident. Even a minor fender bender can produce injuries. The earlier you are treated, the better your chances for a fully recovery!

If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, give us a call and get on our schedule!

605-332-9235