Whiplash Treatment with our Atlanta Chiropractor
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained during a car accident. At the point of impact, it can cause a rapid back-and-forth movement in your neck, similar to the way a whip snaps. When this happens, it can cause damage to your muscles, your tendons, and the bands of tissue that connects to your bones and muscles. Whiplash can also occur as the result of a sports accident or during a violent assault.
Symptoms of Whiplash
After an accident, the symptoms of whiplash often develop within 24 hours. There are some cases, however, where it can take longer for the symptoms to occur. The most common symptom of whiplash is neck pain and stiffness. After the accident, you can also experience loss of the range in motion in your neck, and when you try to move it, it can be very painful. Some people with whiplash develop pain and tenderness in the upper back, shoulders, and arms. Fatigue, dizziness, and tingling in the arms are also common. Some people experience symptoms that are less common, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and memory problems.
Diagnosing Whiplash
After an accident, the doctor will perform an examination to determine if you are suffering from whiplash. The doctor will check the range of motion in your neck and shoulders as well as the reflexes, sensation, and strength in your limbs. The pain and tenderness in your neck, back, and shoulders will also be gauged. The doctor may also order imaging tests. To be sure that there is no fracture or dislocation, the doctor will order an x-ray or a CT scan. The doctor will also want to check for soft tissue injuries. To get a good picture of the disks, ligaments, and spinal cord, the doctor will order an MRI.
Treatment For Whiplash
If you are diagnosed with whiplash, the doctor will recommend rest for the first 24 hours after the injury. Also, applying heat and taking a pain reliever will help. In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxer. The best treatment for whiplash is chiropractic treatment. Depending on the severity of your condition, your chiropractor may use gentle stretching techniques. Your condition could also require manual manipulation or instrument-assisted manipulation. If you prefer not take pain medication or muscle relaxers, chiropractic treatment will relieve the pain and treat the other symptoms.
Call Your Atlanta Chiropractor at Century Center Chiropractic
If you are suffering from an auto accident injury in Atlanta, contact Century Center Chiropractic at (404) 634-1669.