Whiplash is a painful condition that can occur after you’ve suffered a car accident or any sudden impact. When your body is subject to jerking movements, this can cause strain and injury to your neck.

On average, recovery for takes about six weeks. But, as with any physical injury, each case presents unique circumstances. No two whiplash patients are the same. Different bodies heal at different times, and depending on your age, medical history, and injury severity, you may recover in a shorter or longer period.

If you have experienced a car accident or other sudden impact, it is important to recognize the typical signs of whiplash so that you can seek treatment.

Early Signs of Whiplash Injury

Whiplash is a condition that does not always appear immediately after an accident. When sudden movements cause the ligaments in your neck to stretch and tear, it may take a while for you to notice the damage.

Symptoms usually appear a few days after an injury and include:

• Neck pain
• Neck stiffness
• Upper back and shoulder discomfort
• Headaches and migraine
• Trouble concentrating
• Increased fatigue

To diagnose a case of whiplash, a chiropractor will ask you to perform a series of tests and movements to first rule out other complications.

Treatment Options for Whiplash Injury

A chiropractor will determine the severity of your whiplash injury and plan a course of treatment that best fits your needs. Most chiropractors will schedule multiple visits over a few weeks to target your injuries and track your progress.

There are several holistic, non-invasive methods for treating your injury.

Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractors rely on aligning the spine to treat many injuries, including whiplash. Your chiropractor may gently move your spinal joints back into alignment to encourage a more holistic approach and provide pain relief to your neck.

Massage Therapy

Massage helps relax and stimulate the muscles affected by a whiplash injury. A chiropractor can relieve tension and address your underlying pain by applying pressure to the affected areas.

Physical Exercise

In many cases, a chiropractor will encourage a series of physical exercises you can do at home in between sessions. Movement of the neck and upper back through stretching can stimulate healing and help reduce inflammation and soreness.

Chiropractor for Whiplash Injury

Whiplash is a common injury after a car crash. Even a minor collision can have severe consequences on your neck and spine. Early intervention is critical to a quicker recovery if you suffer an accident and present symptoms of whiplash.

Veeva Chiropractic Clinic treats whiplash injuries in Oregon and Washington. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.