What Is Whiplash?
It is common for someone who has been involved in a rear-end car accident to complain of aches and pains in and around their neck. In many cases, the pain is caused by a “whiplash-like” movement of the neck as a result of the sudden impact of a collision. The whiplash motion starts at the time of impact, with the head being thrown backwards while the body goes forwards. This movement is known as hyperextension because the muscles and ligaments of the joint get excessively straightened, often suffering damage. This often leads to loss of the cervcial curve known as “hypolordosis.” The head may then get thrown forwards, typically if brakes have been applied harshly or the car has come to a sudden stop against another vehicle. This forwards movement is called hyperflexion and the neck joint over-bends, sometimes causing the chin to touch the chest. This can cause further damage to the neck. It takes a very short amount of time for a whiplash injury to occur in a car accident. Some studies
Whiplash of the neck is caused by any sudden involuntary forced movement of the head in any direction, and the resultant rebound of the head or neck in the opposite direction. Consequently there are injuries to the surrounding and supporting tissues of the neck and head. Whiplash may occur without you being aware of it. Because of the degrees in which it occurs, symptoms may not always appear immediately. What occurs during the accident is ligaments are stretched beyond their limit for which they were intended. This will result in muscle spasms, alteration of the normal curve of the neck and spine and the resultant limitation of movement. An experienced Doctor of Chiropractic can diagnose and correct these problems with spinal adjustments and physical modalities/ rehab. to the effected area.
