Whiplash refers to a neck injury caused by a sudden jerking forward and backward of the neck, causing traumatic injury and pain. Whiplash is a fairly common injury, but that doesn’t mean it should be taken seriously, or that you can put off seeking medical care. And in order to best treat whiplash, it’s important to know what causes it, what the symptoms are, and what you should do to treat the injury.
What Causes Whiplash?
Whiplash is a common injury in car crashes, particularly if you’ve been rear ended. The sudden impact of the vehicle causes the car to jerk forward, which can lead to some serious neck and should damage. Whiplash can also be caused by contact sports like football or wrestling, horseback riding, falls in which the head is jerked around, and impacts to the head with heavy objects.
Symptoms of Whiplash
If you think you might have suffered whiplash, look out for the following symptoms:
- Neck stiffness
- Limited range of motion in the neck and shoulders
- Pain in the shoulders and upper back
- Fatigue and headaches
- Dizziness
Once you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to see your doctor in order to prevent any long term damage to your head, neck, or back. Often, with a good mix of chiropractic care and pain management, your symptoms should subside within a few days or weeks, and if whiplash is taken care of sooner rather than later, you’re less likely to suffer from chronic neck pain.
When You Should Seek Medical Care
With knowing the symptoms of whiplash, you should seek medical care as soon as you notice any symptoms that are impacting your day to day functions. If the symptoms persist or worsen within a few weeks, that’s a sign you may be in need of more intensive chiropractor care and attention, and your doctor may put you on a more specialized plan to help with your healing process.
For Dependable Medical Care, Come to Revive Medical Center Today!
If you’ve recently suffered from whiplash or any other neck or back injuries, come see the trusted team of medical experts here at Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, GA! Our team of dependable doctors are here to help you on your healing journey and answer any questions you may have about treatment options. Call our office today for your appointment!
