Chiropractic Care for Whiplash at Schofield Chiropractic PC

Whiplash is an injury to the neck that occurs when you are hit by a strong, sudden force. Here at Schofield Chiropractic PC in Cedar Falls, our chiropractors can diagnose the root cause of your pain or discomfort and provide the appropriate treatment to naturally alleviate your condition and prevent it from reoccurring.

What Causes Whiplash?

Whiplash occurs when a sudden force causes the neck to thrust forward and backward uncontrollably. Auto accidents are one of the most common causes of whiplash. If a car hits your vehicle from behind, the sudden force causes your neck and spine to move unnaturally. Other possible causes of whiplash include:

• Hard falls
• Getting hit during contact sports
• Abuse, including pushes, shaking, and punches

Symptoms of Whiplash

Symptoms of whiplash can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the severity of the injury. You might notice them right away or within a few days. Some of the common signs of whiplash include:

• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Pain in the shoulder or back
• Spasms in your neck muscles
• Stiffness in the neck
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision

Risk Factors for Whiplash

Some people are more susceptible to whiplash than others. Risk factors include:

• Advanced age
• Injuries to the neck or back
• Prior experiences with whiplash

How Chiropractors Diagnose Whiplash

If you think you might be suffering from whiplash, our chiropractors will conduct a physical exam. Expect one of our doctors to check your range of motion, reflexes, and movements that cause discomfort. We will also ask questions about the location and severity of your pain, details about your car accident injury, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. In some cases, our chiropractors may recommend an MRI or a CT scan for a further assessment and complete diagnosis.

Treatments for Whiplash

The treatment for whiplash depends on the injury and your physical condition. Since gentle motion and stretching can alleviate the associated pain, our chiropractors will likely conduct gentle spinal adjustments. We may also recommend other chiropractic techniques or ultrasound therapy for pain management and to relieve discomfort and inflammation. If you're having trouble turning your head, corrective exercise can help.

Visit Our Auto Injury Chiropractors for Pain Relief in Cedar Falls and Waterloo

Are you experiencing neck pain after a fall, auto accident, or another injury? Our team at Schofield Chiropractic PC in Cedar Falls can help naturally alleviate your symptoms and help restore the range of motion to your neck, shoulders, and back. Call us today to set up an appointment or to learn more about how our chiropractic care can benefit you.