Answering Common Questions about Whiplash in Oak Ridge TN

Whiplash is among the most common injuries that a chiropractor may treat in an auto accident victim. Whiplash is a non-medical term for the over-extension of the soft tissues of the neck, such as the ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The cervical spine may also sustain trauma. As soon as possible after your car crash, visit a chiropractic clinic for whiplash treatment near Oak Ridge TN. Your chiropractor can answer any questions you may have about your condition.

What Can Cause Whiplash in Oak Ridge TN?

A car crash that occurs at a very low speed is still capable of causing whiplash. This is particularly true of rear-end collisions. In a rear-end collision, the victim's car is pushed forward, which causes the head to be abruptly forced backward. Then, the head is abruptly forced forward. Both of these motions cause hyper-extension of the structures of the neck, leading to painful symptoms. Although auto accidents are a common cause of whiplash, other traumatic incidents can also cause this injury. These include sports accidents, work injuries, falls, and acts of violence.

What Are the Risk Factors for Whiplash?

Certain factors may increase the likelihood that an individual will suffer whiplash during an accident. For example, women are more likely to develop whiplash than men because of anatomical differences. Individuals with a low degree of physical conditioning may be less likely to have an efficient stabilization response during the accident, leading to a greater likelihood of whiplash. Additionally, there are some risk factors that increase the likelihood of a poor outcome, such as delays in seeking chiropractic care, having a prior history of whiplash injury, and being intoxicated at the time of the crash.

Does Whiplash Require Treatment?

Whiplash does require treatment. Many individuals who suffer from whiplash delay seeking a diagnosis and treatment plan from a chiropractor because their symptoms may seem minor at first. However, delaying treatment may mean that the individual will suffer from chronic neck pain, stiffness, and other serious symptoms. Your chiropractor may recommend treatments such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation, and changes in physical activity and diet.