Whiplash is characterized as severe neck strain that involves damage to the muscles and tendons. Because whiplash is usually caused by rapid acceleration and deceleration of the neck, it is most often a result of car accidents and other vehicle-related mishaps. Whiplash can range from mild neck pain and stiffness to complete neck immobility for weeks following an accident, and recovery time varies just as widely from patient to patient.

There are multiple options when it comes to whiplash treatment after a traumatic accident. However, some of the most common whiplash care providers are chiropractors.   

What does chiropractic care for whiplash look like?

Chiropractors are medical specialists that are trained to treat abnormalities related to the spine. Since the neck is one of the most sensitive and delicate sections of the spine, chiropractic care can make a huge difference in the recovery time of whiplash sufferers as well as the quality of recovery experienced.

Typical chiropractic whiplash treatment will involve a combination of rest, rehabilitation practices, and inflammation prevention and management. Chiropractors can reduce whiplash symptoms and shorten recovery time through such treatments as:

Chiropractic adjustment. Also referred to as spinal manipulation, chiropractic adjustments are used by chiropractors to treat a variety of injuries. This treatment involves the gentle movement of the damaged joint toward the direction in which the patient is feeling tension or pain to slowly regain mobility and control of the area. Chiropractic adjustments can take place over weeks to avoid further injury and help the whiplash to heal slowly but steadily.

Muscle relaxation and stimulation. In order to treat whiplash symptoms, chiropractors will often utilize gentle stretches to the affected muscle or joint and intentional contractions of the affected muscle. Used in tandem, these methods can ease muscle tension and increase neck mobility over time.

Expert advice on lifestyle changes. If you’ve experienced whiplash due to an accident, shifting your everyday activities to meet your symptoms where they are is extremely important to prevent further injury or slow your already extensive recovery process. An experienced chiropractor can give useful advice on how to reduce excessive strain during your home, work, and recreational activities so as to prevent further damage to your neck.

Whiplash severity and recovery time varies greatly depending on the person and the situation; therefore, working one-on-one with a chiropractor to design a recovery plan with your exact needs in mind is crucial. Contact Veeva today, for more information on chiropractic care for whiplash.