Whiplash, also known as a cervical strain, is an injury to the neck that is caused by a quick, sudden movement, causing the muscles to become overstretched and potentially damaging the tendons and ligaments. This neck injury is most often associated with auto accidents as it is the most common injury following a vehicular collision. Whiplash can also occur from playing sports, and the chances of it happening are much more likely when the individual is not adequately hydrated. Most of the time, whiplash is mild and resolves on its own, but in some cases, it can be severe and require medical attention.

Chiropractors can utilize a number of different methods to diagnose a whiplash injury, from a physical exam to diagnostic imaging. First, the chiropractor will examine the patient, determining the extent of damage and taking note of their symptoms and levels of pain. This may involve observation; palpation (touching); orthopedic tests; neurological tests; x-ray; and posture and gait assessment. Chiropractic care and its testing procedures are an important step in determining the diagnosis, and they also provide insight into which specific therapies the chiropractor can administer to reduce pain and disability in the patient. The chiropractor will look for:

• Pain or stiffness of the neck
• Muscle spasms
• Pain in the upper back and shoulder
• Headaches originating from the neck base
• Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms or even legs
• Sleeplessness
• Difficulties concentrating
• Irritability
• Trouble walking
• High fever

How can Harvest Pointe Chiropractic & Integrative Health Centre help with a cervical sprain?