Whiplash Injuries - Chiropractic Treatment of Whiplash Pain

Whiplash, also known as neck strain or neck sprain, is one of the most common injuries leading to neck pain. As a result, millions of visits are made to the Chiropractor for treatment of whiplash every year. 

Over 40% of people with chronic neck pain attribute their whiplash pain to a car accident, but car accidents are not the only cause of whiplash.  Playing sports, falls, and even riding on a roller coaster can cause a whiplash injury. In fact, any sudden movement of the head beyond the neck’s normal range of motion can cause a whiplash injury. 

If you’ve suffered a whiplash injury, it’s important to see a Chiropractor or other health care provider who specializes in treating whiplash as soon as possible. The longer a whiplash injury goes untreated, the greater the risk for future complications which can include chronic pain, headaches and early onset of arthritis. Dr. McGahey is well versed in the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of whiplash injuries.

 

What are the Symptoms of a Whiplash Injury?

The symptoms from a whiplash injury depend on the severity of the injury, but the most common symptom of whiplash is neck and upper back pain. Muscles tighten in response to injury, leading to pain, stiffness and muscle fatigue. 

The majority of people will also develop headache in the days following a whiplash injury. Other symptoms may include back pain, shoulder pain, and numbness and tingling of the arms or hands. If the injury is bad enough, dizziness, blurred vision and even short-term memory loss may develop. 

Regardless of symptoms, it is important to see a Chiropractor for treatment of whiplash as soon as possible, as treatment can make the greatest impact in the first few weeks following this type of injury.  If not treated properly, a whiplash injury can lead to chronic pain and early onset of arthritis.

 

Treatment of Whiplash Injuries - Chiropractic and Active Release

The first, and most important, step in Chiropractic treatment of whiplash is to determine the extent of injury.  Dr. McGahey uses a tool called Video Fluoroscopy (motion x-ray) to help evaluate the extent of injury after whiplash. Once determined, the appropriate course of treatment can be followed. 

Chiropractic adjustments can help return normal motion to the joints of the spine. Active Release Technique can help break up scar tissue, allowing the injured muscles, ligaments and other soft tissues to heal properly. 

 

Car Accidents and Whiplash Injuries - Important Considerations

It’s important to realize, some people don’t feel significant pain after a whiplash injury.  This doesn’t necessarily mean the injury is minor as some symptoms take weeks or years to develop.  By that time the damage is done and permanent injury may result.  Even low speed automobile collisions where the car is undamaged can cause significant injury. 

The bottom line is, if you’ve had even a minor accident, have yourself examined by a Chiropractor as soon as possible.  Chiropractic can help improve the health of your spine following an accident so that small problems don’t become larger problems later on.

 

Effective Treatment of Whiplas Injuries in Bellevue, WA

If you’re interested in learning more about how Chiropractic and Active Release Technique can help your whiplash injury, please consider scheduling a consultation with Bellevue Chiropractor Dr. Keith McGahey.  His Chiropractic clinic, Eastside Chiropractic Group, is located in downtown Bellevue near Overlake Hospital.  Open Saturdays, same day appointments are available, and consultations are ALWAYS FREE!