Car accidents, even if they’re minor, carry a significant risk of whiplash. After an accident, most people assume that if they’re not in any immediate pain — especially neck pain — then they’re probably fine. At Carlson Chiropractic, we know that’s not true. Neck pain isn’t the only sign that you’ve suffered whiplash or more serious injuries. In this blog, we’re going to look at some of the less often cited, but no less important, symptoms of collision injuries.
What is Whiplash?
The medical name for whiplash is “cervical acceleration-deceleration” (CAD) syndrome. What most of us know as whiplash is caused when your head and neck are forced backward and then forward suddenly, which usually happens in vehicle collisions. The sudden back-then-forward motion puts intense, sudden stress on the muscles and bones of your neck and head. Other situations that can cause whiplash can occur when doing intense activities such as playing football or bungee jumping.
Lesser-Known Symptoms of Whiplash
Neck pain is, for most people, the number one indicator of whiplash. It’s usually characterized by persistent, nagging neck pain of varying severity. But it’s important to know that many other signs of whiplash may not involve any noticeable neck pain at all. If you’ve been involved in a car accident or experienced any sudden, severe jolt to your neck or head, you should look out for:
- Pain in your shoulders or upper back
- Persistent headache that won’t go away
- Tingling or numbness that extends to your arms
- Weakness in your arms or hands
- Reduced range of movement in your head and neck
- Reduced mental functions, dizziness or confusion.
These symptoms, especially if they persist, are all signs of severe whiplash that will require professional treatment.
Long-Term Side Effects and Risks
Whiplash can have far more serious effects on your health than many people realize. If left untreated, many of the symptoms above will get worse, to the point that they become debilitating. Not only that, but it can also have a lasting impact on your mental health. Irritability, issues with focus and concentration, depression, and even drastic personality changes can take place. If you suspect you’ve suffered whiplash, it’s important that you take it seriously.
Find the Right Treatment for Neck Pain and Chronic Conditions
If you’re suffering from neck pain from an injury or a chronic condition, we can help. In fact, whatever kind of issue you have, talk to Carlson Chiropractic. We will do everything we can to make sure you receive effective personalized treatment, whether it’s manual adjustments, rehabilitation, or even a personalized diet plan. We’ve helped countless people find relief from chronic pain, injuries, autoimmune problems, and much more.
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