Dealing With Neck Pain After an Auto Accident?
Whiplash describes a neck injury associated with a rapid back-and-forth movement of the head and neck. It is commonly associated with motor vehicle collisions, although similar injuries can occur with falls, sports, and other forms of trauma. Symptoms may begin immediately after an accident or become more noticeable over the hours or days that follow.
What Happens With a Whiplash Injury?
During a collision, sudden forces can place stress on the joints, muscles, ligaments, and other tissues of the neck and upper back.
The type and severity of symptoms can vary considerably from one person to another. The circumstances of the collision, your position at the time of impact, previous injuries, and other individual factors may all be relevant when evaluating your symptoms.
What Are Common Symptoms After Whiplash?
Symptoms following a whiplash injury may include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Reduced or uncomfortable neck movement
- Pain around the shoulders or upper back
- Muscle soreness or tightness
- Headaches
- Pain extending into the arm
- Tingling or numbness
- Jaw discomfort
- Dizziness or other symptoms following the collision
Because an auto accident can cause injuries other than whiplash, it's important to consider the circumstances of the accident along with your individual symptoms and examination findings.
When Should You Seek Prompt Medical Attention?
Some symptoms following an auto accident should not wait for a routine chiropractic appointment.
Seek prompt medical attention for concerning symptoms such as loss of consciousness, a sudden or severe headache, confusion, significant dizziness, repeated vomiting, difficulty speaking or walking, sudden weakness or numbness, significant changes in vision, or other new neurological symptoms.
Serious trauma or symptoms that appear to be an emergency should be evaluated through appropriate emergency medical care.
Chiropractic Care After an Auto Accident
Your visit starts with a history of the accident and an examination to better understand your symptoms, movement, and areas of concern.
Depending on your injuries and examination findings, chiropractic care may include spinal or extremity adjustments, soft-tissue techniques, therapeutic exercise, or other supportive therapies available in our office.
If your symptoms or examination suggest that X-rays, additional imaging, or evaluation by another medical provider is appropriate, we'll discuss that with you.
Using PIP for Auto Accident Care
We welcome patients with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage following an auto accident.
If you plan to use PIP benefits, please have your auto insurance claim information available when scheduling so our office can help you get started.
For third-party liability claims, care is available on a self-pay basis.
