You were recently in a car accident and are now experiencing persistent neck pain and stiffness. There's a good chance you could be suffering from whiplash, a common injury sustained in collisions. Since this neck issue is new to you, it's understandable to have many questions about your symptoms and how to find relief. At Winter Park Chiropractor, we would like to provide a few answers to some frequently asked questions about whiplash.
What Exactly is Whiplash?
Whiplash is caused by the forceful back-and-forth movement of your neck during the impact of an accident, especially when struck from behind. This jolting motion hyperextends the neck past its normal functional range, straining the muscles, tendons, and ligaments beyond their capabilities. Visiting Winter Park Chiropractor can help determine if whiplash is the underlying cause of the neck pain you've been experiencing since your accident.
What are the Common Symptoms of Whiplash?
Typical whiplash symptoms include neck stiffness or soreness, reduced range of motion, headaches, shoulder pain, upper back pain, dizziness, and tingling or numbness in your arms and hands. These symptoms may appear immediately or be delayed by days or even weeks after the initial accident. Regardless of timing, it's important to see Winter Park Chiropractor promptly if you notice any painful neck issues following an accident.
How is Whiplash Diagnosed?
Winter Park Chiropractor will begin with a thorough physical examination, asking about your specific accident circumstances, symptoms, and medical history. They may order imaging tests such as x-rays, MRI, or CT scans to look for disc, bone, or soft tissue injuries that could be causing your pain. Identifying the precise source of your pain will inform the appropriate treatments.
What Treatments are Available for Whiplash?
Gentle chiropractic adjustments are effective at restoring normal alignment and mobility to the joints of the injured neck. Other therapies, such as physical therapy, massage, trigger point therapy, and specialized exercises, may be included in your treatment plan. Medications are generally avoided, as they only temporarily mask pain signals without addressing the underlying cause.
Should I See a Chiropractor for Whiplash Treatment?
Chiropractors have substantial expertise in successfully treating whiplash and other accident-related injuries. Winter Park Chiropractor has extensive experience helping patients relieve their neck pain, stiffness, and headaches after whiplash. Their non-invasive treatments aim to correct the source of your discomfort for lasting relief.
Contact a Car Accident Chiropractor Near You
Schedule an appointment today to start addressing your whiplash symptoms. We offer many different chiropractic options for back, shoulder, leg, and neck pain treatment. Call us today to schedule your appointment at our office in Winter Park, FL.
