Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck that occur from a sudden jerking or "whipping" of the head. This type of motion strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range of motion. Whiplash often occurs when a vehicle stops suddenly in a car crash or is struck from behind. Either of these two actions causes passengers to be thrown forward. Seat belts protect the body from forward movement, but the head may snap forward, then backward, causing a whiplash injury in the neck.
In addition to car accidents, whiplash can be caused by roller coasters and other amusement park rides, sports injuries, or being punched or shaken. It is one of the hallmarks of shaken baby syndrome. The patient may feel pain and stiffness in the neck for a few days after an injury, then feel better, but it comes back after a few days and then is felt in the surrounding muscles in the neck, head, chest, shoulders, and arms.
Symptoms
- Pain and stiffness in neck
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty swallowing
- Irritability and fatigue
- Dizziness
- Later pain in shoulder, shoulder blades, arms, hands, feet, legs
- Nausea, ringing in the ears
- Vertigo
- Numbness or tingling in jaw or face
How Chiropractic Therapy Can Help
Chiropractic care works on relieving pain and correcting complications associated with whiplash. Dr. Forster additionally draws on acupuncture and other therapies to tailor treatment for each patient.
Call (813) 788-3232 today for a complimentary consultation.