Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, causing the neck's soft tissues to stretch. You get the expert care you need for a whiplash injury from Peter Atkins, DC, of Atkins Chiropractic in University Place, Washington. The specialized cervical spine treatment offered eases symptoms and helps you heal from the injury. If you’ve experienced whiplash, contact the office today to schedule an appointment. Call or book online.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash describes an injury to the neck caused by your neck bending forcibly forward and then backward. The injury involves the nerves, muscles, discs, and tendons in your neck.

Whiplash commonly occurs during rear-end vehicle collisions, although it can also result from sports injuries, a fall, physical assault, or amusement park rides. 

During a vehicle collision and other incidents, the head and neck rapidly accelerate and decelerate, exerting immense force on the upper neck joints. 

As the head moves freely while the body is restrained, a whipping motion occurs at the neck, leading to potential misalignments.

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Symptoms of whiplash include:

• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Stiffness
• Shoulder pain
• Dizziness

You may notice the symptoms of whiplash immediately or days after the injury. 

How can chiropractic care help with whiplash?

Atkins Chiropractic specializes in upper cervical chiropractic care. The team possesses an extensive understanding of the injuries sustained in a whiplash and offers a unique treatment approach to enhance recovery in ways traditional chiropractic care often cannot. 

They’re specially trained in assessing and treating the upper cervical spine, an area affected notably by whiplash.

How do you evaluate the craniocervical junction?

As upper cervical specialists, the Atkins Chiropractic team assesses the craniocervical junction using X-rays to evaluate and measure the alignment of the upper cervical spine. 

They may also recommend advanced MRI techniques to examine the ligaments and structures within the craniocervical junction.

What corrective treatments do you use to treat whiplash?

The Atkins Chiropractic team uses a gentle and controlled correction method called Orthospinology. This approach contrasts with traditional chiropractic adjustments, which may use more forceful techniques. 

A whiplash injury compromises your neck’s stability. It benefits most from a gentle correction to facilitate proper healing without causing further injury.

Is upper cervical chiropractic care beneficial for both recent and past whiplash injuries?

Upper cervical care is essential for both recent and past whiplash injuries. Regardless of the timing or severity of the injury, upper cervical chiropractic care plays a vital role in the recovery process from whiplash. 

If you have symptoms of whiplash, seek care at Atkins Chiropractic. Call today or use the online tool to schedule your appointment.