Whiplash is a condition that can cause pain and discomfort to the neck and head. It is often caused by sudden, forceful movements. A chiropractor is a trained professional who uses spinal adjustments to help alleviate pain. Here are four ways chiropractic care can help those suffering from whiplash:
1. Specific Spinal Manipulation
Chiropractors use specific spinal manipulation techniques to help realign the vertebrae in the spine. This can help reduce tension and improve the range of motion in the neck, which is often affected by whiplash. By gently adjusting the spine, a chiropractor can alleviate pressure on nerves that may be causing pain and discomfort.
A health practitioner may assess the extent of a patient’s whiplash. They develop an individualized treatment plan to target specific areas of pain and tension. Through regular adjustments, patients may experience reduced pain and improved range of motion in their neck and head.
2. Muscle Stimulation
Muscle stimulation uses gentle neck stretches and exercises to help strengthen the muscles in the neck and reduce stiffness. These techniques can be beneficial for patients with whiplash as they can improve muscle function and decrease pain. A pain management specialist may also recommend at-home exercises to supplement their in-office treatments. This is to allow patients to continue their progress between appointments.
3. Soft Tissue Therapies
Whiplash sometimes results in damage to the soft tissues in the neck, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. A chiropractor can use a variety of soft tissue therapies to help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing. This may include techniques such as massage therapy, trigger point therapy, or myofascial release. These therapies can be highly effective in relieving pain and restoring function in the neck.
4. Instrument-assisted Therapy
Instrument-assisted therapy is a technique pain experts use to help treat whiplash and other musculoskeletal conditions. It involves using specialized tools, such as Graston instruments or percussive devices. The therapy targets specific areas of tension and dysfunction in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This type of therapy can be effective in reducing inflammation and improving the range of motion in the affected area. It may also be used with other treatments, such as chiropractic adjustment, to enhance their effectiveness.
Common Symptoms and Signs of Whiplash
People with whiplash experience headaches that start at the base of the skull. Tingling or numbness in the arms can occur if the nerves are damaged. Some individuals may feel unusual neck pain and stiffness. Dizziness or balance problems may occur. Less commonly, blurred vision might be experienced. Psychological symptoms like irritability, sleep disturbances, or depression may accompany a whiplash injury. If you’re experiencing these symptoms following an accident, seek medical attention.
Alleviate Neck Pain With a Chiropractor
A chiropractor is a trained healthcare professional specializing in treating musculoskeletal conditions, including whiplash. They use a hands-on approach to diagnose and treat these issues, using spinal manipulation, mobilization, and soft tissue therapies. They can use muscle stimulation, spinal manipulation, and soft tissue therapies.
With their expertise in the musculoskeletal system, a pain management expert can help alleviate neck pain. Consider visiting one if you are experiencing neck pain or other musculoskeletal issues. They can provide a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief.
