This winter, the snow may bring us some major issues, especially when driving out on the icy streets. It is vital to be careful when navigating through town on a snowy day. However, minor auto accidents do happen. If you have been in a crash, you may want to have your neck and back checked out by an experienced chiropractor, especially if you are feeling some pain in these areas.
Whiplash is a common occurrence for those who have been in an automobile accident. This injury is caused when the neck is moved suddenly and quickly in one direction and then jolted back to its original position. The American Chiropractic Association explains that whiplash can also occur due to falls as well as sports and work injuries.
Often whiplash consists of tearing the ligaments that support and protect the movement of the vertebrae within your neck. The muscles and tendons of the neck are also strained beyond their normal limits. If you have a stiff neck or any pain around the cervix after a car accident, you have likely sustained a whiplash injury.
Sometimes people experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, ringing in the ears, and blurred vision after a severe whiplash injury. Once your doctor or chiropractor determines that you have indeed suffered from whiplash, you will likely be assigned a stretching and exercising regimen to alleviate your neck pain.
You may also be advised to use ice or heat for reducing the muscle spasms that accompany this injury. Spinal manipulation, physical therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation are also some other methods for providing short-term relief of neck pain.
It is also important to be proactive with your health. You may be able to prevent some of the more severe symptoms of whiplash if you use a seat belt or restraint when driving as well as keep the headrest adjusted to your height. If you do sustain an injury from a car accident this winter, see a chiropractor as soon as you can.