Whiplash is one of the most common injuries associated with car crashes and other accidents. Whiplash occurs when the cervical spine snaps forward and then backward in a rapid motion, causing strain and injury within the cervical spine. Fortunately, a chiropractor can grade the severity of whiplash, treat you and help relieve your symptoms.

The Whiplash Grading System

In order to better understand how your chiropractor can treat your whiplash, you must first know how they grade this kind of injury. Whiplash is graded on a scale from zero to three, with each level showing increasing symptoms and severity. Learn more about these different grades and how they are treated below.

Grade 0

A Grade 0 whiplash refers to a whiplash injury that is not presenting any noticeable symptoms. With this, it is important to understand that even if you are not experiencing symptoms, there may still be an injury present.

This is why you should be evaluated by a chiropractic clinic after any auto accident, regardless of what symptoms you may or may not have.

Grade 1

Grade 1 whiplash injuries come with little to no physical indications of the injury, but most people still experience neck pain for several weeks after the accident. This pain can range from mild to moderate in severity and often dissipates as time goes on.

With that said, Grade 1 whiplash is still an injury that can benefit from chiropractic care. These injuries are often treated with physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the neck.

Grade 2

When someone has a Grade 2 whiplash injury, people typically experience moderate neck pain for several weeks to months after their accident. There will also be the beginning signs of musculoskeletal injuries. These kinds of injuries require a combination of chiropractic services, including physical therapy, massage, and specialized exercises.

Grade 3

A Grade 3 whiplash injury is the most significant level of injury. Those with Grade 3 diagnosis often have moderate to severe neck pain that is ongoing after their accident. They also show signs of musculoskeletal injury and physical impairment.

A Grade 3 injury requires the most extensive chiropractic treatment plan, with more long-term physical therapy, exercises, and massages.

Whiplash Treatment at Veeva Chiropractic Clinic

If you have a potential neck injury, it is better to see a chiropractor. Veeva Chiropractic Clinic offers auto accident check ups and treatment throughout Oregon. Contact us online or by phone to schedule a consultation appointment.