Whiplash is most commonly received from riding in a vehicle that is struck from behind or that collides with another object. When the head is suddenly jerked back and forth beyond its normal limits, the muscles and ligaments that support the spine and head can be overstretched or torn. The soft, pulpy discs between spinal bones can bulge, tear or rupture. Vertebrae can be forced out of their normal position, reducing range of motion. The spinal cord and nerve roots in the neck can get stretched and irritated. While occupants can suffer considerable soft tissue injury, the car may only be slightly damaged.
The resulting instability of the spine and soft tissues from whiplash can cause:
- headaches
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- pain in the shoulder, arms and hands
- reduced ability to turn and bend
- low back problems.
As the body attempts to adapt, symptoms may not appear for weeks or even months later.
The chiropractic approach to treating these types of injuries is to use specific chiropractic adjustment to help return spinal function. After a thorough examination and case history, the doctor will recommend a series of visits to help restore proper motion and position of the spinal bones. If whiplash is caught early enough, inflammation can be reduced and scar tissue can often be minimized.
Call Watkins Family Chiropractic at 952-440-4553 to schedule a free consultation today! Chiropractor Dr. Josh Watkins provides chiropractic adjustments and whiplash treatment to patients in Savage, Prior Lake, Burnsville and surrounding cities in Scott County, Minnesota.
