Whiplash (Neck)

Neck injuries are common in an auto accident and can be painful in their own right. Whiplash is a type of neck injury usually associated with rear-impact auto collisions. Whiplash occurs when the soft tissues in the neck (containing nerves, muscles and ligaments) are damaged.

Symptoms of a Concussion

Common symptoms of whiplash include the following:

• headache
• tightness in the neck
• inability to turn the neck without pain
• numbness
• tingling
• radiating pain into the shoulders

Treatment for Concussion

Chiropractors are leaders in the care of whiplash injuries. A doctor can properly determine the severity of a whiplash injury and whether any structural damage has occurred.

Common treatment includes wearing a collar to immobilize the neck and the use of prescription pain medication or muscle relaxants to relieve tension. Further treatment from a physical therapist or chiropractor might be necessary. In severe whiplash injuries, symptoms may not subside for several weeks, and further diagnostic testing is necessary to determine if surgery is needed.