Whether you’re involved in a rush hour fender-bender, a high-speed highway collision, or an unexpected hit-from-behind football tackle, whiplash is a painful and common injury. According to the Spine Research Institute of San Diego, roughly 3 million Americans sustain whiplash injuries each year, with about 1.5 million Americans suffering chronic (long-term) pain from whiplash. This injury is especially common after rear-end motor vehicle impact.
How It Occurs
Whiplash occurs when the head is rapidly jerked backward and then forward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. This quick movement can cause pain, stiffness, and long-term complications if not properly addressed.
With millions of crashes occurring each year in the United States, it’s important to understand this condition and how to minimize its risk.
Risk Factors and Prevention
According to Dr. Shaye, several factors can increase the risk of whiplash:
- Gender: Women are more susceptible to whiplash, possibly due to generally having less muscle mass than men.
- Head position: “If possible, don’t turn your head at the moment of impact. A turned head, such as looking in a mirror as a rear-impact collision strikes, will increase the risk of neck and upper back injuries and headaches,” said Dr. Shaye.
- Vehicle safety features: While airbags and seatbelts save lives, they’re most effective when both are available. Very old vehicles may lack modern safety features.
Post-Accident Care
If you’re involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel fine initially. “Early intervention may help minimize the risk of a lifetime of headaches, neck and back pain, disc degeneration, premature arthritis, and nagging annoyances that can seriously impact quality of life,” added Dr. Shaye.
When you become a patient, Dr. Shaye will perform a thorough examination and then create a customized treatment plan to address your whiplash. Your care may include chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture.
Preventing Whiplash Through Safe Driving
While you can’t control other drivers, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:
- Practice defensive driving
- Maintain proper distance from other vehicles
- Adjust your driving for road and weather conditions
- Avoid distractions like using cell phones or eating while driving
Don’t Delay Seeking Care
If you’ve been in an accident or are experiencing neck pain, it’s important to get care. Unaddressed whiplash injuries can lead to chronic pain and a decreased quality of life.
Contact Performance Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shaye. We want to help you recover and reclaim your life.