Whiplash is one of those things people associate with car accidents—and for good reason. It’s one of the most common injuries after a rear-end collision. But it can also happen during sports, falls, or any situation where your head is suddenly forced backward and then forward, like the cracking of a whip.
The force causes a strain to the muscles, ligaments, and sometimes even the discs in your neck.
Symptoms can include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Headaches (especially at the base of the skull)
- Dizziness or trouble concentrating
- Pain in the shoulders or upper back
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
One thing to know: whiplash symptoms often don’t show up right away. It’s common to feel “fine” the day of the accident, only to wake up sore and stiff a day or two later.
The sooner we assess and begin treatment, the better. Chiropractic care can help restore normal motion to the spine, calm the nervous system, and prevent long-term complications like chronic pain or limited mobility.