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5 Signs You May Have Whiplash After an Accident

Written By John J. Giovanelli, D.C., P.C. on September 5, 2019

Woman with whiplashWhiplash is a very serious bone and/or soft tissue injury caused by forceful impact – and is often associated with automobile accidents. The general medical term encompasses a number of painful side effects, including neck pain and stiffness – as well as issues with memory and psychological distress.

Fortunately, regular chiropractic care following an automobile accident can help alleviate some of the lingering discomforts of whiplash – which could involve any of the following symptoms:

1. Headache

A jarring motor vehicle accident could cause a severe headache. However, if your headache is lingering – and concentrated at the nape of the neck – you could be suffering from the onset of whiplash. Also, be sure to meet with your regular medical provider as well to ensure you have not experienced a concussion or other cranial trauma.

2. Shoulder Pain

Whiplash can also cause aching in the shoulder blades. With chiropractic manipulation and mobilization, we can help treat this bothersome side effect and increase your range of motion and mobility.

3. Tingling or Numbness in the Arms

Impact-related injuries can cause an increase in pain or discomfort in one or both arms. When related to whiplash, these symptoms can get better with routine physical therapy alongside chiropractic adjustment. Like any other pain-related symptom, tinging in the arm can also be indicative of serious cardiovascular problems as well – and should never be ignored.

4. Sensitivity & Dizziness

Whiplash may cause some patients to experience fatigue, vertigo, blurred vision or ringing of the ears (tinnitus). Also, some whiplash patients experience certain psychological problems, including difficulty sleeping or depression. For some, chronic pain and depression go hand in hand, and treatment of chronic pain may be a positive step in alleviating the concurrent mental health issues.

5. Neck Pain

Perhaps the most well-known whiplash symptom is stiffness and soreness in the neck and upper back. Neck pain can be dull and aching or acute and stabbing. Also, whiplash patients often report a limited range of motion and difficulty turning the head from side to side or up and down.

Get Your Whiplash Treatment Today

If you are experiencing the onset of whiplash – and underlying physical health problems have been ruled out by your treating physician – our office can offer all-natural, drug-free treatment for pain and discomfort.

Call Dr. Giovanelli today! Our goal is for all our patients to be pain-free and happy: 770-487-1228.


Posted In: Chiropractic Auto Injury Whiplash Treatment Neck Pain