Whiplash is a painful neck injury that occurs when the muscles and tendons in the neck are damaged. It's a common soft tissue injury that is sometimes referred to as a neck strain. While it's usually a minor injury, it can cause more serious symptoms. If you have questions about this condition, you'll find some answers below.

1. What Causes Whiplash?

Many people develop whiplash after being involved in auto accidents, especially rear-end collisions. The sudden impact can whip the neck back and forth during a crash, damaging neck muscles. However, it can also be caused by roller coaster rides, falls, sports injuries, and other situations that cause trauma to the neck. People are more likely to develop whiplash if they've injured their necks in the past.

2. When Do Symptoms Appear?

Some people experience symptoms immediately after an injury, while others may not have symptoms until later. Symptoms usually begin within 24 hours of the injury, but some may not show symptoms for a few days. Without treatment, it's common for symptoms to become more severe with time.

3. What Are Common Whiplash Symptoms?

The primary symptoms of whiplash are neck and shoulder pain, but it can also cause other symptoms. Other common symptoms include a stiff neck, headaches, or a tingling sensation along the neck or shoulders. If the injury is severe, it can also cause neurological symptoms like vision problems and dizziness.

4. Do Chiropractors Treat Whiplash?

The neck is a part of the spine and is often referred to as the cervical spine. Since chiropractors specialize in spinal health, they can treat conditions like whiplash. According to the American Chiropractic Association, over 34 million people in the U.S. receive chiropractic care each year. Chiropractors can also treat injuries that occur alongside whiplash, like nerve damage and strains.

5. How Long Does it Take to Recover?

Healing times can vary based on the injury's severity. It's not unusual for people to recover from whiplash within a few weeks, but some injuries can take months or more to heal fully. Without treatment, some people may experience lasting neck pain and stiffness.

Neck injuries can cause significant impairment and discomfort. Your neck helps support your head and upper back, and injuries like whiplash can interfere with your neck's functionality. That's why you shouldn't wait to seek treatment if you have symptoms of a whiplash injury. Contact Dr. Nikta Andalib, D.C., Q.M.E. today to make an appointment.