Whiplash
Whiplash injuries need not be the result of car accidents. A slip or fall can give you a whiplash-type injury and sudden movement, especially if repetitive, may cause injury as well. Normally, the joints at the back of your neck glide over each other and are self-lubricated but a whiplash injury forces them together, damaging the surrounding area, which includes nerves, muscles, ligaments and discs. Often patients are surprised to have symptoms appearing 1-2 weeks after a car accident or fall. Damage from a whiplash-type injury can show a variety of symptoms including: dizziness – light headedness – neck pain – headaches – arm pain – fatigue – poor concentration.
Chiropractors are specialists in treating non-surgical spine injuries and commonly treat whiplash injuries from car accidents. Drs Clarke and Ismail focus on helping patients overcome the pain and disability associated with whiplash. At our clinic Dr. Clarke and Dr. Ismail will carry out a full examination (which may include an X-ray) and take a thorough history before advising an appropriate treatment program for you. Treatment for these kinds of injuries involves often gentle, specific adjustments to your neck. This will decrease pain and restore normal movement to the area, aiming to ensure that each joint is working at its best.
The process of rehabilitation from a whiplash injury requires a concerted effort between the chiropractor, the patient and any other professional assisting in the case. The likelihood of success of recovering from whiplash is enhanced by a continued focus on restoring normal function with the help of the chiropractor.
Accident Action Plan
- Move vehicles off busy roads and set up flares. Be cautious about moving injured parties, but try to protect them from traffic.
- Write down the license number of the other vehicles
- Call the police
- Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance data
- Make notes about how you remember the accident happening.
- Call you insurance agent immediately
- Take care of your injuries, by letting the paramedics do an exam and follow up by having Dr Clarke or Dr. Ismail do an exam. In some cases, x-rays may be necessary.