Studies indicate that whiplash is the most common injury sustained in motor vehicle accidents in the United States. However, falls, sports injuries, physical assaults, or a rough ride on your favorite roller coaster can also cause whiplash.
Caused by sudden whip-like movements of the neck, this painful injury can affect spinal discs, muscles, ligaments, and nerves.
Pamela V. Ford, DC, and our team at Serenity Chiropractic & Family Wellness Center in Carrollton, Texas, specialize in chiropractic care and physical therapy services that reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve your overall quality of life.
Read more about whiplash symptoms, how long it typically takes to resolve, and how our team can help you heal faster and better.
Whiplash symptoms can vary but typically include:
Whiplash symptoms can occur immediately or within a few hours of an accident or fall. However, symptoms may not develop fully for several days.
Because whiplash can involve muscles, nerves, ligaments, discs, and bones in the spine, it’s sometimes hard to estimate how long the injury may take to heal.
Factors such as your overall health, age, and exercise habits can play a role. Preexisting conditions like arthritis may also affect healing.
Generally, however, the duration of whiplash recovery varies depending on the severity. For instance, symptoms of a mild injury may resolve within 2-4 weeks. Moderate whiplash can cause symptoms for three months or longer, and a severe injury may cause pain and other symptoms for more than a year.
Timely and appropriate treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes and may help speed healing.
Dr. Ford creates a personalized treatment strategy that’s designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and help prevent whiplash complications like chronic neck pain.
Whiplash often responds best to combination therapy that may include:
Massage therapy can also be added to your treatment regimen to help reduce tension, alleviate pain, and improve circulation.
You can’t prevent whiplash. However, Dr. Ford can help you develop healthy habits, such as routine exercise, proper ergonomics, good posture, and other behaviors that may lessen its effects on your health and mobility.
Schedule an evaluation at Serenity Chiropractic & Family Wellness Center today. Call the office or request an appointment online.
