Neck pain is one of the most commonly reported symptoms after an auto accident, and is frequently experienced by our patients in Oakleigh, Melbourne. Often neck injuries sustained after a car accident are referred to as whiplash.
The term "whiplash" is actually a non-medical, colloquial term referring to range of neck injuries caused by hyperextension or distortion of the neck. Most cases of whiplash occur when a person is struck from behind, such as in a rear-end auto collision or while being hit by a ball in football or rugby.
During a rear-end car accident, the passenger's body is thrust forward while the head stays behind for an instant, then rocks up, backward, or sideways. The muscles react in a reflex to push the head forward, sometimes violently. This shearing force may stretch, strain, or tear the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the neck. Hyperextension of the neck can also occur when the vehicle is struck on the side or in any direction.
Your tendons are tough, fibrous tissues that connect the muscle to the bone; while ligaments connect bone to bone. Even if you have not broken any bones, torn or sprained ligaments and tendons become inflamed, leading to significant pain and decreased function. Damaged ligaments and tendons may take several months to heal. Many cases of whiplash injuries are resolved within the first three months of the injury, however up to 50% of patients experience chronic symptoms (lasting three or more months). Fortunately, research shows that seeking early, active treatment, such as care from your Oakleigh chiropractor, can reduce your risk of developing chronic whiplash symptoms.
Whiplash is a general term referring to a range of neck injuries that occur with a sudden hyperextension of the neck. As such, the symptoms of whiplash-associated disorders can vary greatly depending on the patient and nature of injury. However, here are the most common symptoms of whiplash:
If you've sustained a whiplash injury, it's important to remember that staying active and trying to complete normal everyday movements with your neck is crucial for preventing disability and promoting healing. Countless studies have demonstrated that exercise, physical therapy, and chiropractic care can all help to alleviate symptoms after whiplash injury. These active, conservative treatments enable Dr Sam to relieve whiplash injury without the use of surgery or drugs. For natural relief of whiplash in Oakleigh, East Bentleigh, Mt. Waverly, and Clayton, schedule an appointment with North Road Chiropractic today.
