If you live in Stuart, Palm City or Hobe Sound Florida, and are injured in a car accident here are 3 reasons to choose chiropractic care after a car accident. Car accidents can not only cause injury but anxiety as well. Even if your car accident was minor, your injuries could be serious, even life […]
Neck Pain and Whiplash
Neck pain and whiplash are common complaints, especially if you’ve been injured in a Florida car accident.
Whiplash is a generic term used to describe a hyper extension and flexion injury to the neck. It is a soft tissue injury to the neck.
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Did you know that whiplash injuries aren’t limited to car accidents? A fall, a sports injury, or anytime there’s a sudden jolt of the head can cause whiplash.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash describes a soft tissue injury to the neck. Whiplash is cause by a forceful back and forth movement of the neck. The force of the back and forth movement causes injury to the ligaments and muscles of of the neck. Whiplash is technically a strain/sprain injury to the ligaments and the muscles of the neck.
What causes neck pain and whiplash?
Any large force that causes the head to “whip” back and forth can cause whiplash.
Such forces include:
- Car accidents: rear-end collisions.
- Physical abuse or violence
- Contact sports: football, soccer, and lacrosse to name a few.
What are the symptoms of whiplash?
Symptoms for whiplash usually develop within 24 hours of the accident. In rare cases, symptoms can take longer to appear. Symptoms of whiplash are:
- Neck pain
- Neck pain worse with movement
- Loss of range of motion or inability to move the neck
- Headaches
- Pain in the shoulders, arms and upper back
- Tingling and numbness in the arms
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Other whiplash symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Irritability
- Inability to sleep
- Nausea
If you have been in any type of accident and experience any of the above symptoms, seek the advice of a qualified medical professional immediately.
Treating neck pain and whiplash?
It is important to remember to keep active after a whiplash injury.
After the first 24 hours, movement is vital.
Inactivity and foam cervical collars lead to the weakening of the cervical muscles. This can prolong your healing time.
It is highly recommended to seek professional medical care within 24 hours of your injury. Your doctor can make recommendations on bed rest and cervical collars based on your individual case.
Treatments for neck pain and whiplash include1:
- Chiropractic care
- Physical Therapy
- At home exercises
- Massage
- TENS unit therapy
- Ice or heat therapy
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Prescription medication
If you are experiencing neck pain and live or work in the Stuart, Fl area, feel free to schedule a consultation with Dr. Danielle Hurd, DC. Call 855-509-5400.
