Do You Need a Chiropractor to Treat Whiplash?

Whiplash is a common injury that we see at True Health Chiropractic & Rehab in Merrillville, IN. It has many causes ranging from a car accident to simply slipping and falling. Whiplash may not be as immediately debilitating as a broken leg or bleeding injury, but it can have a serious impact on your life. A chiropractor can help you get through this uncomfortable period and get back on your feet.

How Do People Get Whiplash?

Your neck and spine are flexible for a reason. These bones are designed to let you bend, reach, and twist as needed. However, this flexible system can be vulnerable.

In cases like a car accident, your body may be held in place, but your head may whip around or back and forth. This quick, powerful motion can wrench your neck. It irritates the nerves and damages the muscles. This may also damage the discs that cushion the bones of your spine.

What Are the Consequences of Whiplash?

Whiplash is associated with a lot of pain, stiffness, muscle weakness, and temporary loss of range of motion. The damaged area may swell. Your traumatized body can tense up from the pain to protect your neck from farther harm. In practical terms, you may find it difficult to stand, lie down, pull a t-shirt over your head, lift a bag of groceries, etc.

Unfortunately, restricting your mobility does not just impact you at home and in the workplace. It could restrict blood flow, slowing your healing time. Constant pain and poor sleep can also lead to long-term issues like depression and mental fog. Finally, muscle imbalances and poor spinal alignment may linger on after you heal. These lead to several problems down the line.

How Can a Chiropractor Help You Heal From Whiplash?

A chiropractor near me is a valuable resource during every stage of the healing journey. In the short term, the chiropractor will evaluate you and work with you to reduce pain. This might involve techniques like gentle massage and adjustments.

Longer-term, your chiropractor will try to reverse muscle imbalances, improve your posture, and speed your healing. You may be given exercises to strengthen your neck and back. The chiropractor will also advise you on how to prevent future re-injury.

Looking for Whiplash Treatment?

Our team at True Health Chiropractic & Rehab in Merrillville, IN is highly experienced in treating complex injuries like whiplash. We offer alternative care and all-natural pain relief, to help you get back to health fast. Ready to book a consultation? Contact us at (219) 769-7787 or through our online form.