What is whiplash? Whiplash is a condition that is most commonly generated from the forces in a rear-end automobile collision.
While there are certainly many complicated factors that occur during an accident, the following gives a simple explanation of the mechanisms at work. As the impact occurs, the head and neck are whipped forcefully in a hyperflexed and then hyperextended motion. This forced motion is responsible for a stretching or tearing of the muscles and associated tissues of the spine. When this over-stretching or tearing occurs, fluid begins to build up outside the damaged tissues and begins to inflame the nerves that are surrounding this area. When the nerves become irritated, this sends a signal to the brain that basically says "there's a problem in the neck, let's fix it!" The brain will then send a signal to the nerves which then tell the muscles to contract or spasm in order to protect the damaged areas.
Symptoms of whiplash injuries include pain and stiffness in the neck, upper back and shoulders. Headaches and sensory abnormalities such as numbness and tingling may also result. Symptoms may appear directly afterwards, but are often not felt until days after the injury. This is especially true for low speed auto accidents.
The Quebec Task Force (the leading authority on whiplash injuries) recommends the following treatments for whiplash injuries where no bones are broken: manipulation (or chiropractic adjustment), mobilization and range of motion exercises for the affected joint complexes.
Dr. Michael Buczynski at Art of Health Chiropractic in Nashville, TN has treated over 1100 auto accident patients over the past two years. He has worked with patients exhibiting symptoms such as whiplash, headaches, wrist and shoulder sprains, disk bulges, hip and knee pain, numbness, tingling, back pain, and more.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident in Nashville, schedule a consultation with Dr. Buczynski and rest assured that you are in good hands.
Call the office at (615)953-7544 to schedule your appointment today.
