Whiplash is the most common injury that causes chronic neck and back pain. 

The violent forces can damage your spinal discs, ligaments, tendons, and bones even at relatively “low” speeds. Most of these injuries happen when your head is whipped in rapid motions, resulting in torn ligaments and injured discs. 

Symptoms of whiplash: 

  • Neck pain
  • Back Pain
  • Headaches
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Numbness & tingling in fingers 

These symptoms may not be immediately noticeable due to the adrenaline spike. It could take a few days for the symptoms to appear and go unnoticed until the initial shock of the accident has worn off. 

One of the most common injuries associated with whiplash is ligament sprain or strain, which causes neck pain. Without proper care and treatment from professionals, a non-healed ligament injury can result in early osteoarthritis. 

If your symptoms include: 

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Impaired memory 

Chances are you may have suffered a mild brain injury, which takes about 3 months to recover from. 

Another common injury that can be found in your shoulders is known as torn rotator cuff if you are driving with both your hands on the steering wheel at the time of an accident.

 Signs of a tear include: 

  • Shoulder pain when the arm is lifted 
  • Weakness 
  • Pain when lying down 
  • Limited range of motion 

The risk of getting neck/ shoulder pain 7 years after the fateful collision was 3 times higher for people who suffered whiplash injuries. 

How will YOU benefit from Chiropractic care? 

Whiplash can damage discs in the spinal column – such as a herniated disc which can be identified by chiropractic doctors. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, trying to live “around” your injuries can cause add-on stress on other parts of your body, which could lead to additional injuries. 

We tend to put our health and well-being last on the to-do list. Be nice to yourself and give your body the best chance to find relief without the need for drugs or surgery. Here are 3 simple steps we recommend: 

  • Get a Full Evaluation – a complete evaluation provides an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan at Neo Chiropractic Clinic to minimise the risk of long-term pain
  • Begin Receiving Care – Movement-based techniques are often recommended to regain your quality of life. Our chiropractor will provide appropriate services such as spinal manipulation and chiropractic flexion-distraction 
  • Stay Consistent – Getting well is a process and a journey 

The 3 simple steps are a short but simple plan that will give you the best chance to heal quickly and stay well for years to come without the need for drugs or surgery!

If it is acted upon early, there’s a high likelihood of getting well within a matter of weeks. Do make a mental note to call your favourite and trusted chiropractor as soon as possible if you or a loved one experiences an accident.