Understanding whiplash.
A sudden forced movement of the head or neck in one direction—and the resulting rebound in the opposite direction—is known as whiplash. This sudden whipping motion may injure the surrounding and supporting tissues of the neck and head. Muscles may react by tightening and contracting, creating fatigue, pain, and stiffness.
Severe whiplash may also involve the intervertebral joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots. Automobile accidents are the most common cause, but falls and near slips may also produce similar injuries.
Some people do not feel the full effects of a whiplash injury until weeks or months later, when the problem becomes persistent or begins contributing to other concerns.
Joint dysfunction and misalignment.
When two or more vertebrae are not functioning together properly, chiropractors may describe the problem as a subluxation or misalignment. These joint dysfunctions can contribute to pain, discomfort, decreased mobility, and other symptoms.
Joint dysfunctions in the spine may eventually contribute to symptoms in other areas of the body. The absence of pain does not always indicate that the joints and surrounding tissues are functioning normally. By the time symptoms appear, the underlying problem may have been present for some time.
Potential benefits of routine chiropractic care.
Individual results vary. Your recommended care will depend on your examination findings, health history, and clinical needs.