Whiplash is a type of neck pain caused by a severe back and forth motion of the neck. Often, the resulting injury can require rehabilitation. If your neck is sore and you think you might have whiplash, here is a quick introduction to the symptoms and what steps you can take.

Causes

Most cases of whiplash are seen after car accidents, particularly rear-end ones. The impact of another car causes the body to move forward before the head and neck. The consequential snapping of the spine to bring the head back to the body can tear or sprain tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Other kinds of trauma from sports or physical abuse can cause whiplash as well.

Symptoms 

Whiplash will usually present the morning after the collision when muscles have had a chance to relax and adrenaline has run down. Neck pain and stiffness can range from mild to severe. Patients will often feel like they can’t move their neck or shoulders. They may experience tingling in their arms, headaches, and dizziness. In the most severe cases, the pain may also cause blurry vision and ringing in the ears. The chronic pain of whiplash and lack of ability to concentrate may make the patient irritable or depressed.

Treatment

If you think you have whiplash, see a doctor for X-rays to rule out any broken bones or more serious spinal injury. Most of the time, the pain abates on its own after a few weeks, but in worse cases, it may become chronic and last for months or even years. This is more likely if you’ve had pre-existing neck pain or a back injury.

Icing the injury may help, and gently exercising the muscles is recommended. Try gently turning your head to one side until you feel the stretch, then holding the position for 20 seconds. You can also try slowly bending your chin toward your chest. Be careful not to overdo it. Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers or muscle relaxers to prevent spasms as well.

If you’re dealing with whiplash, seek treatment at North Pole Chiropractic. The Alaska family care practice specializes in chiropractic health and pain relief. Dr. Jack Harrison and his knowledgeable staff expertly treat back and neck pain and automobile injuries while offering on-site X-rays and pediatric chiropractic care. For more information about their services, visit them online, and call (907) 488-1885 to make an appointment.