After a car accident, there are a lot of concerns. You may be worried about the out-of-pocket expenses of an accident, the needs of your family, and how long you’ll need to wait for your car to be fixed.
However, while these are important concerns, they may be distracting you from recognizing the signs of whiplash–a serious neck injury. Your Conyers chiropractors at AICA Conyers diagnose and treat patients with whiplash, preventing serious complications down the road.
Definition of Whiplash
Whiplash refers to an injury of the nerves and soft tissue in the neck.
It occurs when the a force propels the head and neck back and forth rapidly, similar to the motion of a whip. Most whiplash injuries are caused by rear-end auto accidents, however it can also be a result of assault or sports injuries.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Symptoms do not always show up immediately after an incident. Sometimes it takes 24 for 48 hours for signs to show. The most common signs of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness or headaches.
You’ll notice a limited range of motion in your neck and worsening pain as you move your neck. Along with the neck pain, you may also feel pain in your upper back, shoulder or arms.
Additional symptoms of whiplash include fatigue, dizziness or numbness or tingling in your arms. Some even experience blurred vision, memory problems, depression, sleep disturbances, irritability, trouble concentrating or ringing in your ears.
Possible Complications
Most people experience little to no complications from whiplash, however others suffer from symptoms for years following the incident. A visit to your Conyers chiropractor can detect the injuries early and start treatment quickly to decrease your risk of complications.
Chiropractic Treatment for Whiplash
One of the most common neck treatments to correct whiplash is spinal manipulation–specifically a neck adjustment. A Conyers chiropractor moves the neck with gentle but forceful pressure.
his reduces irritation to the nerves and soft tissue in the affected area. Not only can an adjustment decrease your pain and possible increase your range of motion, but it will also enhance blood flow, helping any damaged soft tissue heal.