Whiplash

What it is:
Whiplash, also called neck sprain or neck strain, is an injury to the neck caused by the sudden movement of the head backward, forward or sideways. Whiplash injuries can result in:

	Stretched or torn neck muscles or ligaments
	Bulging or herniated discs
	Annular tears
	Misaligned vertebrae, also called subluxations
	Loss of the neck’s normal forward curve
	Accelerated degeneration of the discs
	Accelerated development of arthritis

Every year, about 3 million Americans suffer from whiplash injuries caused by auto accidents – and these accidents don’t have to be major. Vehicles can usually withstand collisions of 10 mph without damage. However, whiplash injuries can be caused in accidents of just 5 mph.

Sports, falls and other injuries can also be responsible for whiplash.

Where it occurs:

Whiplash is an injury to the neck (cervical spine). It is caused by the sudden movement of the head backward, forward or sideways.

The Symptoms:
Whiplash symptoms may include:

	Stiffness
	Neck Pain
	Shoulder, upper back, or lower back pain
	Headache
	Dizziness
	Nausea
	Numbness
	Tingling
	Blurred vision

Apart from neck pain, people with whiplash injuries may also have problems with daily activities, such as difficulty with reading, computer work, moving or turning the head, lifting and traveling.

It’s important to note that whiplash symptoms may not appear for weeks or even months after an accident. This makes it extremely important to be thoroughly examined for whiplash injuries after even a minor accident – and even if you are not currently experiencing whiplash symptoms.

If left untreated, a whiplash injury can result in chronic neck pain and other serious conditions. For example, one study showed nearly 40 percent of whiplash victims still experienced pain seven years later.

What are my treatment options?
Whiplash treatment options include chiropractic care, physical rehabilitation, and MCU therapy.