Whiplash is the over-extending of muscles of the neck that causes them to become sprained or torn. It is usually due to an accident of some sort. When this over-extension occurs, the bones of the upper neck can become misaligned causing problems throughout the body. This condition affects up to two million people in the United States.
Research done on vehicle collisions that come from behind revealed that injuries to the neck can happen at speeds as low as 5 mph. Most accidents occur at speeds of 6-12 mph. This may not cause the automobile to be damaged, but the body is much more susceptible, especially the neck.
It may be surprising to learn that whiplash can occur with other activities besides a car accident. Some of these include:
- Football
- Gymnastics
- Bicycling
- Skiing
- Ice skating (and falling)
- Hockey
- Wrestling and boxing
- Tripping and falling
Injuries while doing any of these activities and more can result in neck damage. This can lead to further damage in the body, even years later. Drs. Kaeser and Ettlin reported in a German medical journal that the following problems can be a result of whiplash injuries:
- Being unable to hear low tones
- Dizziness
- Globus
- Dysphonia
- Torticollis
- Cervical dystonia
While this can be disturbing, there is help available. The same two German doctors stated that by adjusting the cervical spine and correcting the injuries caused by whiplash these problems can be avoided.
Help for Whiplash Sufferers
It is important for a person who has been diagnosed with whiplash to seek out the care of an upper cervical chiropractor as soon as possible. The earlier it is treated, the fewer problems will ensue. We will begin by examining the upper neck for any possible misalignments. We will then develop a treatment plan for that individual patient. We do not twist or pop the neck but use a gentle, effective treatment to bring the body back into alignment and allow healing to begin. Many future health problems can be avoided by getting the right kind of help.
Reference:
http://danmurphydc.com/kaeser.whiplash.pdf
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