Whiplash may be one of the more common, but least understood types of injuries that people suffer from around the world. While most people may associate this condition as the result of a car accident, it can happen in any situation when the neck muscles become strained due to an unexpected event.
What is Whiplash?
As the name describes, whiplash is a sudden, unexpected severe movement of the neck usually caused by a violent incident. The result is a strain of the muscles and ligaments in the neck area. The joints in the spine may be affected as well. The nerves that surround the vertebrae may become stretched or inflamed which over time will cause more pain.
Whiplash is the damage to the nerves, muscles, and ligaments in the neck area. If not properly treated, the symptoms often grow worse over time.
Symptoms
For those who suffer from whiplash, most will not experience the symptoms right away. While most symptoms start to appear within 48 hours, some may take up to four weeks. The symptoms of whiplash may include the following.
- Pain in the neck area that was struck
- Stiffness or lack of mobility in the neck
- Headaches, pain or stiffness in the shoulders, upper back, and arms
- Blurred vision, dizziness, vertigo, and nausea
- Problems with swallowing
- Difficult to concentrate
A sprain or tear in the ligaments is often part of a whiplash event. Left untreated, the pain will often grow worse as the structure and support provided have been compromised.
Treatments
For minor muscle strain, icing the area of the neck affected will often work. This will reduce the inflammation and pain. After a few days of applying ice, massage therapy along with applications of heat to promote circulation will help heal the muscles in the neck area. Over the counter pain medication can help as well. This type of simple home treatment usually works when the symptoms are minor.
But in more serious cases of whiplash, you will need professional help from those who have years of experience treating this type of condition.
If you suspect that you are suffering from whiplash, Living Waters Wellness is here to help. Our professional staff will treat you with care to ensure proper pain management. This means that we can diagnose and provide proper treatment that emphasizes a holistic approach. We have helped people just like you achieve effective results without the need for major surgery or the use of narcotics.
At Living Waters Wellness, we offer effective whiplash treatment in Fort Pierce and Port St.Lucie FL. Call today and find out more about our pain management services that can help lower the pain you feel, overcome the injuries associated with whiplash, and let you get back to your life.