Whiplash - Chiropractic Treatment
Introduction
Neck and upper back pain may occur immediately or in a somewhat delayed fashion after an auto crash. If you have neck pain, upper back pain, shoulder pain, tight muscles, and burning or tingling sensations in your neck or upper back, you may have whiplash. Most cases of whiplash can be treated with non-surgical chiropractic methods that help to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Whiplash most frequently occurs during car crashes when a car is rear-ended. It may also result from sports, work, or violence related injuries. The injury occurs when the head moves forward, backwards, or sideways suddenly, often in extreme degrees of flexion and extension. The muscles, ligaments, joints, or spine structures may be damaged.
Treatment
Your chiropractor will review your medical history and conduct some tests to help diagnose whiplash. You should tell your doctor about your incident and your symptoms. Diagnostic imaging may be used to help identify injured soft tissues or bones. Most cases of whiplash may be treated without out surgery. However, your chiropractor will refer you to a surgeon if it appears that your injury warrants surgery.
Non-surgical treatments for whiplash include gentle chiropractic adjustment, cervical traction, heat therapy, cold therapy, physical therapy, or a combination of treatments. It is important to follow your chiropractor’s instructions while you heal. Most cases of whiplash heal in about two to four weeks with treatment.