What is Whiplash?

Whiplash gets its name because the damage tends to stem from the neck being propelled in a manner similar to the cracking of a whip. It causes a variety of symptoms, but fortunately, Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness in Nitro, WV, can help.

But, what exactly is whiplash?

General Information 

Whiplash occurs when there is damage to the soft tissue in your neck. It can also include damage to the nerves in this region as well. 

Because of the damage from the impact, you experience a number of symptoms that tend to only last for a few weeks. However, long-term complications are possible. 

Symptoms of Whiplash 

Pain is one of the more common symptoms of whiplash. It may worsen when you move your neck a certain way. Stiffness is also possible.  

If the damage is to the nerves, you may also experience numbness, pain, weakness, burning, or tingling, which can extend throughout your shoulders and arms. 

It's also possible to have a loss of range of motion in your neck. 

Additionally, some people experience other symptoms, such as the following:

• Fatigue
• Memory problems
• Headaches
• Tenderness in the upper back, shoulders, or arms
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears
• Irritability
• Depression
• Trouble concentrating

 Causes 

As briefly noted above, whiplash occurs when your neck is forced, specifically forward, backward, and forward again. 

Most commonly, whiplash occurs from a rear-end collision. However, a sports-related injury or physical assault that forces your neck to go through these motions could also lead to this condition. 

Treatment

When you come to our chiropractic practice in Nitro, WV, our Dr. McClanahan will first determine if you have whiplash based on your symptoms. Though uncommon, our chiropractor may order imaging to rule out other potential injuries. 

Next, our chiropractor will determine a treatment plan tailored to your particular condition. This may consist of a cervical adjustment, which will realign the vertebrae and discs in your neck to relieve pressure on the discs and surrounding soft tissue. 

Usually, the treatment also includes exercise therapy, which consists of our practitioner guiding you through exercises that stretch the soft tissue in the neck. The exercises gradually increase in difficulty as you heal. They strengthen the soft tissue. In addition, the movements encourage an increase in blood flow to the area to help with the healing process. 

Whiplash can cause long-term effects, but at Dr. J. Chiropractic & Wellness, serving Nitro, WV, and the nearby region, Dr. McClanahan can help. We'll provide a comprehensive diagnostic process and provide treatments customized to the severity of your injury. 

Schedule an appointment at our practice today by calling 304-776-1520.