Whiplash? Why You Need to See a Leading Independence Chiropractor
Dr. Steven Rickman, D.C., is a leading Independence chiropractor dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care for people suffering from whiplash. Whiplash symptoms can be long-lasting, and without care, they can take a toll on your quality of life. Here’s what you should know:
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a soft-tissue injury that occurs when an impact like an auto accident, sports accident or slip-and-fall accident causes the neck and head to snap sharply forward and back, much like the crack of a whip. The rapid backward and forward movements strain and injure nerves, ligaments, muscles and other tissues, and the motions also can pull the cervical vertebrae (neck bones) and the discs that separate them out of alignment.
What are the most common causes of whiplash?
Whiplash often occurs as the result of an auto accident injury; in fact, whiplash is one of the most common auto injuries, occurring even after seemingly mild “fender benders.” It can also occur as a result of a slip-and-fall accident or from a sports-related injury. A direct impact with the head isn’t necessary for whiplash to occur. Often, whiplash develops after an indirect-impact auto accident injury, when the vehicle is struck and the impact causes the driver’s or passenger’s head to snap back and forth without actually striking another object.
What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
Whiplash symptoms typically include:
- pain or stiffness in the neck
- headaches
- shoulder pain or pain in the upper back
- lower back pain
- numbness or pins-and-needles tingling in the arms, hands or fingers
- irritability
- problems sleeping
- fatigue
- dizziness
- problems focusing or remembering
Symptoms usually develop over the first 24 hours following an accident, but sometimes they can take days to appear.
What Role does Chiropractic Care Play in Whiplash Treatment?
Chiropractic care focuses on the treatment of issues affecting the spine, nerves and musculoskeletal system, making it an ideal option for people suffering from whiplash symptoms. Whiplash treatment typically begins with a careful assessment of the spine and the patient’s specific symptoms. A hands-on evaluation of the back and neck will be performed, and X-rays or other imaging tests may be performed to assess the spine and evaluate the extent of damage.
Many patients benefit from spinal adjustment to realign the spine and gently coax the discs back into their normal positions. By realigning the vertebrae and discs, spinal adjustments relieve nerve irritation that causes both localized and radiating pain and numbness.
Massage or deep tissue manipulation can also help by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. Application of ice or heat combined with gentle movements are also helpful in reducing inflammation and in stimulating lymphatic drainage in the injury site.
Schedule a Consultation Today.
As a top chiropractor in Independence, Dr. Rickman is a trusted provider of whiplash treatment developing as a result of auto injuries or other types of accidents and injuries. The key to optimal long-term relief of symptoms is to begin whiplash treatment as early as possible so nerve and soft tissue damage can be minimized. If you’re suffering from whiplash or other types of neck or back pain, call Rickman Chiropractic (816) 350-0020 and take the first step toward better health with a trusted, top-rated chiropractor in Independence.
