Suffering from Whiplash?
Achy neck, sore shoulders, or headaches followed by an accident or trauma? You may be experiencing symptoms of a whiplash.
Although most frequently associated with car accidents, a whiplash injury may occur from a sudden unexpected movement. This sudden movement creates stress on the muscles and ligaments throughout your upper back and neck.
Possible causes of whiplash may include:
- Auto Accident
- Sports Injury
- Falling
- Physical Abuse
- Hitting Your Head
The onset of symptoms of a whiplash are not always immediate; many people don't even realize they have even injured themselves at the time of the event. Symptoms of a whiplash often appear within 72 hours after trauma, but can take longer. If you feel that you have been injured in an accident, then you need to figure out how serious the injuries may be.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms commonly associated with whiplash may include:
- Neck Pain
- Decreased range of motion
- Shoulder or Shoulder Blade Pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- TMJ Issues
Symptoms may begin abruptly or have a delayed onset and may increase over time.
When Should Care Start for a Whiplash Injury?
Whiplash injuries are considered serious, and if left untreated, the potential long-term impact may be devastating. We recommend seeking treatment immediately following any kind of accident that may result in whiplash, even if you aren't experiencing symptoms yet. Concussions are also associated with whiplash events, and you should be evaluated for a possible concussion.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
Getting you back to normal as soon as possible is our number one goal. To do that, we will likely recommend one or more of the following:
- Joint manipulation to gently restore movement to your neck.
- Manual therapies to ease your muscle tightness, pain and swelling.
- Therapeutic exercise to improve mobility and restore strength
If you believe you have been injured in a car accident or other event, don't wait to seek treatment. Call today to schedule an appointment at either of our convenient locations in Ellicott City or Clarksville.
