Tuesday 24 January 2023

Whiplash Injury: Risk Factors, Symptoms and Treatment Options

According to the CDC, an estimated 3 million fall injuries occur annually in the United States. If you have been diagnosed with whiplash, you may wonder how you can manage your pain best. The best option is to visit a chiropractor. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the causes and symptoms of whiplash and the benefits of chiropractic care for whiplash injury treatment.

What is Whiplash, and When Does It Occur?

Whiplash is caused by a sudden, forceful movement of the head back and forth. It is most commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents but can also occur in contact sports, roller coaster rides, and other activities involving sudden movements or impacts.

When the head is thrown in a whiplash-type motion (backwards and forward), the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck and upper back are stretched beyond their normal range of motion. This stretching or tearing of the soft tissues can cause inflammation, pain, and other symptoms.

According to the CDC, an estimated 1.7 million people sustain a TBI annually in the United States. Most of these injuries occur as a result of motor vehicle accidents. However, whiplash can also occur in sports-related collisions, falls, and physical abuse.

Common Risk Factors of Whiplash

Some common risks of whiplash include the following:

  • Not wearing a seat belt while in a motor vehicle
  • Not using head restraints while in a motor vehicle
  • Participating in contact sports
  • Participating in extreme sports
  • Riding on a roller coaster
  • Being physically abused

Symptoms of Whiplash

The symptoms of whiplash can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Tingling and numbness in the arms and hands
  • Muscle spasms
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability
  • Sleeping difficulties

You should seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after a sudden impact or movement.

Conclusion

Whiplash can occur in many different activities that involve sudden movements or impacts. It is important to recognize the symptoms of whiplash and seek medical attention if you experience them.

One of the most effective ways to manage the pain associated with whiplash is to visit a chiropractor. Chiropractic care can help to reduce inflammation, increase the range of motion, and improve overall function.

Why Choose Dr. Berry for Whiplash Treatment in Tustin, CA?

At Active Chiropractic, we specialize in providing holistic and natural treatments to help you manage your pain and strive to provide the highest quality of care to all our patients. We use several chiropractic techniques, including manual adjustments, spinal decompression, and massage therapy. We also offer nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice to help you prevent future injuries.

If you are suffering from whiplash-related pain, don’t wait any longer. Visit Active Chiropractic & Laser Center in Tustin, CA, and get the whiplash injury treatment you need to start feeling better. Our experienced and knowledgeable chiropractor, Dr. Michael Berry, D.C, will customize a treatment plan to help you manage your pain and improve your overall health. Contact us today to get started.