Your Burning Questions Answered

Although ‘whiplash’ is a fairly common term (and common injury, by the way), few people actually know much about it. So, below are some questions we frequently get asked about whiplash in our Juneau chiropractic office. See how many you can answer correctly on your own before reading the answer that is supplied.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash refers to injury to the soft tissue of the neck, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, when your head is suddenly moved forward or back.

What causes whiplash?

Perhaps the most common cause of whiplash is automobile accidents (setting the headrest to appropriate heights can help reduce your risk). However, it can also be a result of sports injuries and slip-and-falls.

Additionally, one study published in the Clinical Journal of Pain, even noted that head-banging created a whiplash effect in almost 82% of 13-14 year old girls who were studied and just over 16% of boys of the same age. They call it head-banger’s whiplash.

What are some of the most prevalent symptoms of whiplash?

Most people are aware that whiplash can lead to headaches and neck soreness, but the reality is that there are even more symptoms that may signal that you have a whiplash-related injury. These include dizziness and a tingling sensation in your arms.

True or False: Whiplash pain appears immediately after an injury.

Okay, this is kind of a trick question. Some people with whiplash come to our Juneau chiropractic office immediately after an accident or injury, complaining of pain, but it is possible that symptoms can take a few days to appear. That is why it is necessary to get checked out regardless of whether or not you feel anything.

How did you do? If you are worried about whiplash, come to Aurora Chiropractic Center today. We’ll answer all of your questions!

 

Reference

Kassirer MR and Manon N. Head banger’s whiplash. Clinical Journal of Pain. 1993 June;9(2):138-41.