Our St. Petersburg chiropractor treats many patients with whiplash and many of these patients often have questions about the condition. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers addressing this common condition.
Read Dr. Staubs' Curriculum Vita (CV)
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden motion that forcefully jerks the head backward then forward.
Why do they call it whiplash?
They call it whiplash because the motion resembles the cracking of a whip.
What is the most common cause of whiplash?
Rear end collisions are the most common causes of whiplash.
What are the symptoms of whiplash?
Whiplash causes symptoms such as pain and stiffness in your neck, upper back, and shoulders. The pain and stiffness of whiplash are usually worse when you move your head and neck. Some people experience pain, tingling or numbness in their arms, or even poor range of motion in their necks. Other symptoms of whiplash may include problems sleeping, irritability, blurred vision, poor concentration, memory problems, and depression.
Why does whiplash hurt?
Whiplash causes uncomfortable symptoms because the forceful jerking of the head injures muscles, ligaments and other tissues that support your head. The forceful motion of whiplash can even cause the bones of the spine and the discs cushioning the bones of the spine to move out of their optimal location.
When do symptoms of whiplash typically begin?
Symptoms of whiplash usually develop within the first 24 hours after an accident. In some cases, whiplash symptoms appear much later.
How long do symptoms last?
Most people recover from whiplash symptoms within a few months, especially with proper treatment. Without treatment, though, symptoms can last much longer.
How do they diagnose whiplash?
Your chiropractor will ask about the events and review your symptoms before performing a thorough examination of your head and neck. The chiropractor will assess your range of motion, and may even order imaging tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
How do you treat whiplash?
Treatment for whiplash may include spinal manipulation that returns the bones of the spine to their correct position, and corrective exercises to help you regain your full range of motion. Chiropractic massage can soothe tension, ease headaches, reduce sleep disturbances and melt away muscle spasms.
Seek Out our St. Petersburg Chiropractor For Whiplash Relief
If you need whiplash treatment in St. Petersburg, make an appointment with Suncoast Integrative Healthcare. Our office is conveniently located at 6514 Central Ave in St. Petersburg, FL. Our chiropractor has the training, experience, and expertise to diagnose, evaluate and treat whiplash. Make your appointment today by calling (727) 519-3757.