Whiplash (Cervical Strain/Sprain)
Overview
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden acceleration–deceleration motion, such as during a car accident or sports impact. The rapid back-and-forth movement can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints in the neck and upper back.
Although symptoms may appear mild at first, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic stiffness, headaches, and postural imbalance.
Signs & Symptoms
- Neck pain or stiffness developing hours or days after injury
- Headaches, often at the base of the skull
- Shoulder or upper back pain
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Occasionally numbness or tingling in the arms
Causes
- Motor-vehicle accidents (rear-end collisions are most common)
- Sports injuries or falls involving rapid head motion
- Poor postural stability pre-injury (weak deep neck muscles)
- Lack of early movement following the incident
How a Chiropractor Can Help
At Unify Rehab & Performance, our first step is a detailed assessment to determine the severity of soft tissue and joint involvement, ensuring safe and effective care.
Our treatment approach includes:
- Gentle manual therapy and mobilizations to restore neck motion.
- Soft tissue therapy for affected muscles and fascia.
- Acupuncture for pain control and to promote healing.
- Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen neck stabilizers, improve posture, and reduce recurrence.
- Education on gradual return to normal movement and ergonomics.
Our integrated care helps patients recover strength and mobility, minimizing long-term complications often associated with whiplash injuries.