Natural Whiplash Treatment

What is Whiplash?

Have you ever been in an automobile accident? Do you think you might suffer from Whiplash? Did you know whiplash can occur in a rear-end accident at only 5 MPH. What is it? It’s is an overextension of the neck muscles. So, if you were in a recent automobile accident, there is a good chance you suffered whiplash.

Even if you weren’t in an auto accident, whiplash can occur. Any sudden movement of the head that causes it to whip back and forth due can cause that overextension. Think of it this way, if the impact of a vehicle from behind at only 5 MPH can cause it, it doesn’t take that much to cause such an injury.

While, pain in your neck and back may be a sign of whiplash, it is not the only sign. There are other major signs, and t’s important to be able to identify them. Listed below are some other common symptoms of whiplash. It is important to note if you aren’t experiencing any pain in your back or neck, or any of the below symptoms they may only be the beginning of the complications.

Symptoms of Whiplash

• Pain in your arms or legs
• Herniated Disc
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Vertigo/Dizziness
• Tinnitus
• Headaches/Migraines
• Visual problems
• TMJ
• Fatigue/Insomnia
• TMJ
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• Torticollis/Dystonia

Going through the Healing Process after Whiplash

Four Steps to Overcome Whiplash

1. Ice your neck  – Place an ice pack on your neck for 20-30 minutes at a time once every three to four hours for two to three days. Make sure the pack is  covered with a thin cloth or paper towel to prevent you from getting frost bite.
2. Moist Heat – This should only be done after you have followed the above icing procedures for two or three days and the initial swelling has gone down. This might be a good time to take a warm bath or hot tub. While can feel good on sore muscles it should be used sparingly as it can increase inflammation as swelling when used to excess.
3. Neck Brace or Collar – If you have one, or know someone who does, you can wear this. But only wear a neck brace if your upper cervical specialist recommends it. They can weaken the muscles, so it is important to only wear them after an examination of your upper vertebra.
4. Upper Cervical – The most important step in going through the healing process after you experience whiplash is to seek out the care of an upper cervical chiropractor.

Upper Cervical Care and Whiplash

So, how can upper cervical care help? When your Atlas vertebra, which is your uppermost vertebra, is out of alignment, it causes a domino effect throughout your body. Among other effects, your body will not receive the right nutrients, irritation to your nerves occur, there is improper cerebral blood flow, and more. Upper cervical care will realign your Atlas vertebra with your neck. Once this vertebra is aligned with your neck, your brain will be able to communicate with your body correctly.