Auto Accident Care

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs as a result of a rapid back-and-forth motion of your head and neck. It frequently happens when you’re in a car accident in which you’re hit from behind without warning. People who play sports like football are also at risk for whiplash injuries.

As a result of the rear impact, the movement forces the lower bones in your neck (lower cervical vertebrae) to become hyperextended backward, while the upper bones in your neck (upper cervical vertebrae) are hyperflexed forward. This causes an abnormal S-shape motion in your cervical spine which may damage the soft tissue in your neck, resulting in whiplash pain.

What are some common whiplash symptoms?

Whiplash symptoms usually occur within 24 hours of an injury or accident, but not always; they may also happen more gradually. Common symptoms include:

• Loss of range of motion in your neck
• Headaches starting at the base of your skull
• Neck pain
• Stiff neck and shoulders
• Tingling in your arms
• Jaw pain
• Upper back pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

If left untreated, whiplash can also cause blurred vision, ringing in your ears, and trouble remembering things. Early diagnosis and proper treatment leads to a more rapid recovery than waiting to see if your symptoms get better on their own.

How is whiplash treated?

The team at BBC Health takes a holistic, whole-person approach to rehabilitate you after a whiplash injury. Each person is unique, and so is your treatment plan.

If you were in an auto accident or suffered a personal injury, the doctors may prescribe gentle spinal adjustments to realign your neck. They have onsite rehab, including cervical traction and a spinal decompression table, for your convenience.

The team takes digital X-rays on-site to determine the severity of your whiplash injury so they can treat you accordingly. They also work with attorneys and auto insurance companies to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.

If you were in an auto accident or suffered an injury to your neck, the sooner you seek treatment, the more quickly you can recover from painful whiplash symptoms. Call the office for an appointment or schedule the next available time using the online booking system.