Auto Injury Treatment: What to Do About Whiplash
Whiplash is a collection of symptoms that commonly arise following a car accident. Most notably, whiplash causes neck pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion. In many cases, whiplash arises from motor vehicle accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. This is because these crashes cause the patient’s head to move backward and then forward abruptly and forcefully, causing the soft tissues of the neck to become hyperextended.
Possible Long-Term Complications of Whiplash
The aftermath of an accident can be chaotic, even if it’s just a minor collision. Many people tend to delay seeking medical attention, especially if the injury seems relatively minor or the crash was just a fender bender. Whiplash in particular can cause delayed symptoms. In other words, you might not realize the extent of your injury until a day or two after the crash. Yet, it’s important to seek medical care promptly, even if you’re not sure if you’re seriously injured.
When patients avoid seeking medical care, there is a greater risk of developing chronic (long-term) health problems. The neck pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion of whiplash can persist for months, perhaps along with the following symptoms:
- Headaches (especially at the base of the skull)
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Pain in the shoulders, arms, and upper back
- Tingling and numbness in the arms
Individuals who seek chiropractic care soon after a crash are less likely to experience chronic symptoms, not to mention enjoy relief of the short-term problems.
Nonsurgical Options for Auto Injury Treatment
A chiropractor can provide effective auto injury treatment without the need for surgery or medications. The first step is to confirm the diagnosis. Your chiropractor will ask you about your medical history and symptoms, and perform a physical exam. Sometimes, the chiropractor may request additional testing, such as x-rays, MyoVision Scanning (a 90-second scan that assesses spine functionality), or JTECH testing (evaluates range of motion).
Next, your chiropractor will develop an auto injury treatment plan that may include the following treatment modalities:
- Neck adjustment—Although whiplash is primarily a soft tissue injury, many auto accident patients also have spinal misalignments. Your chiropractor can apply gentle pressure to realign the structures of the neck.
- Soft tissue therapy—Whiplash occurs when the soft tissues (ligaments, muscles, and nerves) become hyperextended. Soft tissue therapy can relieve pain and encourage healing. Therapies include massage therapy, trigger point therapy, and acupressure point therapy.
- Therapeutic stretching—Scar tissue often develops following an injury. Therapeutic stretching can prevent scar tissue and the pain associated with it.
Auto Injury Treatment in Frisco, TX
At ChiroConcepts of Frisco North, we routinely work with auto accident patients who have sustained a range of injuries, including whiplash. We provide accurate diagnoses using state-of-the-art technology, including x-rays, MyoVision Scanning, and JTECH testing, along with comprehensive auto injury treatment plans that may include chiropractic and physical therapy.
Call (469) 850-0222 to schedule an appointment at our office in Frisco today.
Posted In:
Chiropractic
Auto Injury Treatment
Whiplash Treatment
