Whiplash occurs when the neck is abruptly jerked back and forth, such as when a car rear-ends another vehicle. It can be excruciating and can cause long-term cervical pain or even disability. Whiplash should be taken seriously and treated as soon as possible, like any other auto accident injury. At Charleston Chiropractic And Therapy in Charleston, we can quickly diagnose and adequately treat whiplash. Here are the top symptoms of whiplash.
Neck Pain
This is the most common symptom and can range from mild to severe. It may be localized in one area or more widespread throughout your neck. You may also experience difficulty turning your head from side to side. Your neck will most likely hurt when you move it in any direction. That's why you should visit a chiropractor when you have an auto accident injury.
Headaches and Migraines
Often, pain from the neck radiates up to your head and causes headaches or migraines. You should be aware of any changes in your headache pattern; if the intensity or frequency increases after a whiplash injury, seek medical attention immediately. Don't confuse headaches with standard post-accident stress. In any case, you should consult a chiropractor and have your neck evaluated.
Dizziness or Balance Problems
Sometimes, whiplash causes dizziness or balance issues due to disrupting the cervical nerve supply. You may feel off-balance when you stand up or experience difficulty walking in a straight line. Dizziness is caused by head movement, so be mindful of activities that involve sudden neck movements.
Shoulder Pain
Pain in your shoulders may also occur after this injury. It is usually due to muscular tension from bracing yourself during the accident or from ligament damage. You should keep affected muscles relaxed and seek treatment if you experience persistent pain. Chiropractic treatment is essential in properly treating the affected muscles and ligaments.
Numbness or Tingling
Whiplash can also cause numbness or tingling sensations in your arms, hands, and fingers due to nerve compression in the neck. Treatments like chiropractic adjustments will help reduce nerve compression, allowing for a better component and hand range of motion. However, if the sensations persist, you should immediately seek medical attention.
Fatigue
Fatigue can be caused by the psychological stress of being in an accident and physical damage to your muscles and ligaments. You may feel exhausted after doing a small amount of activity or even sitting still for too long. If your fatigue prevents you from living normally, see a muscle specialist and evaluate your neck.
Schedule an Appointment with an Experienced Chiropractor for Treatment
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms after a car accident, get natural and effective treatment at Charleston Chiropractic And Therapy in Charleston, SC. We can diagnose and appropriately treat your whiplash injury. Call us today at (843) 722-7074 for an appointment.