Whiplash Treatment: Active Life Chiropractic, Columbia

Whiplash Explained: Definition and Causes

Whiplash occurs most often in auto accidents, and it can occur in the blink of an eye. With Columbia’s high rate of car accidents, whiplash is a common injury. Dr. Sam Henley and the talented team at Active Life Chiropractic in Columbia, MO specialize in treating whiplash injuries, a unique condition that requires special expertise of a skilled health professional with chiropractic experience.

Active Life Chiropractic in Columbia, MO routinely evaluates and treats auto accident victims suffering from whiplash and other types of auto accident injuries. Dr. Sam Henley will make any appropriate referrals to other health care providers if necessary.

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is not a disease and not a diagnosis, but it is more like a description of how the injury has been sustained. Whiplash injuries occur anytime the spine is unexpectedly and quickly moved in one direction and then rebounded in the other direction. This movement often occurs when a patient slams on their brakes, is hit from behind or jolted suddenly during car accidents. Most who suffer from whiplash have misaligned vertebrae in their spine, and the injuries usually involve a combination of nervous system, muscles, joints, and connective tissue damage. The injuries often occur at different degrees and when left untreated, whiplash symptoms generally worsen and can cause lasting damage. Chiropractic care for whiplash injury is the most effective way to manage these symptoms and support the body’s natural healing process.

Whiplash Symptoms

• Headaches
• Neck Pain and Stiffness
• Low Back Pain
• Dizziness & Fatigue
• Tingling/Numbness in Arms
• Blurred Vision

• Sleep Disturbances
• Irritability
• Difficulty Concentrating
• Memory Problems
• Depression

If you have been in a car accident and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s possible you could be experiencing pain from a whiplash injury. Don’t wait to let your whiplash injury cause damage or pain that could last for years. If you are not feeling like yourself after your accident, please feel free to contact Active Life Chiropractic for a safe and proper evaluation today.

Whiplash Treatment

Did you know that more than 20% of people who suffer from whiplash injuries continue to suffer from pain or restricted movement for up to two years after the accident? However, with proper treatment, many whiplash injuries can heal quickly and provide you permanent relief. People are happy to be safe and alive after an auto accident, but it’s very important to monitor your symptoms for the next few weeks or set up an evaluation just in case.

Chiropractic Care is the single, most effective treatment for minimizing the long-term impact of whiplash injuries. When coupled with massage therapy, trigger-point therapy, stretching and specific range-of-motion exercises, whiplash injuries can be treated at an even more effective rate.

Request Your Free Consultation

Dr. Sam Henley and the wellness team at Active Life Chiropractic specialize in whiplash injury and can provide you with the most optimal care for your whiplash injury in Columbia, MO. Get relief today by calling us at (573) 999-7805 or fill out our online form for a free consultation!

Causes of Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash injuries primarily occur due to sudden acceleration-deceleration forces, commonly seen in auto accidents. This rapid movement can cause the head to be thrown forward and then backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments.

Other causes include sports injuries, physical abuse, and falls. Understanding these causes can help individuals recognize the risk factors associated with whiplash, allowing for better prevention strategies and awareness during activities that may lead to such injuries.

Long-Term Effects of Whiplash

While many individuals recover from whiplash within weeks, some may experience long-term effects, including chronic pain and stiffness. These persistent symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

Research indicates that up to 30% of whiplash patients may develop chronic pain. Early intervention and proper treatment are crucial in minimizing these risks and ensuring a more complete recovery.

Importance of Chiropractic Care for Whiplash

Chiropractic care plays a vital role in the recovery process for whiplash injuries. Chiropractors utilize hands-on spinal manipulation and other techniques to restore proper alignment and function, alleviating pain and promoting healing.

Incorporating chiropractic care with other treatments, such as physical therapy and massage, can enhance recovery outcomes. Patients often report significant improvements in pain levels and mobility after receiving targeted chiropractic adjustments.

Preventing Whiplash Injuries

Preventing whiplash injuries involves taking proactive measures, especially when driving or participating in contact sports. Utilizing seat belts, adjusting headrests properly, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Additionally, strengthening neck muscles through specific exercises can help improve resilience against sudden movements. Awareness and education about the risks of whiplash can empower individuals to take steps towards prevention.