Whiplash Treatment in Chiropractic-Works & Wellness Clinic 

Understanding the Basics,

Whiplash, medically termed cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injury, occurs when the neck and head undergo a rapid backward and then forward motion, placing significant stress on the cervical spine. The most common cause is car accidents, particularly when a person is struck from behind. However, whiplash can also result from activities like bungee jumping, assault, roller-coaster rides, or high-speed sports accidents such as skiing.

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Symptoms of Whiplash

If you’ve experienced whiplash then you may be experiencing neck pain, headaches or dizziness with the intensity of pain varying from mild through to excruciating. Yet depending on the impact and level of damage, you may also experience:

• Decreased range of motion

• Tenderness

• Stiffness

• Pins and needles / Tingling

• Weakness and numbness

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What is the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of Whiplash?

When you present at Chiropractic-Works and Wellness Clinic for a whiplash-associated disorder, we will undertake a comprehensive assessment where we assess:

• your physical signs such as any dizziness, vertigo, muscle spasm or numbness.

• musculoskeletal signs such as decreased movement, tenderness in specific areas

• neurological signs including weakness or lack of reflexes.

Depending on the results of this assessment, it allows us to recommend the appropriate chiropractic care  for the treatment of whiplash. 

A more comprehensive approach may be necessary, addressing not only pain but also factors contributing to dysfunction.

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At Chiropractic-Works and Wellness Clinic:

Chiropractic treatment can be beneficial for individuals suffering from a whiplash injury, commonly associated with the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck and head, often occurring in car accidents. Chiropractors use various techniques to address the musculoskeletal issues that may arise from whiplash.

 

Here are ways chiropractic care can help with whiplash:

Alignment Correction: Chiropractors focus on the alignment of the spine, particularly the cervical spine (neck). Whiplash can cause misalignments, and chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment, reducing pain and stiffness.

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Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors may use soft tissue techniques such as massage, stretching, or trigger point therapy to alleviate tension and reduce muscle spasms associated with whiplash.

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Range of Motion Exercises: Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to improve the range of motion in the neck and prevent stiffness. These exercises can be done both in the chiropractic office and at home.

Advice on Posture and Ergonomics: Chiropractors often provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomics to prevent exacerbation of whiplash symptoms.

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Recovery time

The recovery time for whiplash varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the injury, individual health factors, and the promptness of treatment. While some individuals may experience relief in a few weeks, others may take several months for complete recovery.

It's crucial to seek chiropractic care promptly after a whiplash injury, as early intervention can contribute to a faster and more complete recovery. Chiropractors will assess the extent of the injury, develop a personalized treatment plan, and provide recommendations for at-home care to support the healing process. Always follow the advice of your chiropractor and attend follow-up appointments as recommended for optimal recovery.