Whiplash is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a "neck injury due to forceful, rapid, back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip". These injuries are common after car accidents, even those that occurred at seemingly slower speeds. Typical symptoms are neck pain, headaches, and shoulder pain. Additionally, many patients who enter our clinic also report symptoms of dizziness and a feeling of disconnection from their bodies.
Whiplash injuries can be severely debilitating, leading to inability to work or do many other simple activities of daily life. We take a particularly strong interest in caring for whiplash injuries from a neurological perspective because we acknowledge the neurological implications of having a whiplash injury.
The cervical spine conveys a huge amount of proprioceptive input to the brain, meaning that it helps the brain know where the body is in relation to it. After a whiplash injury, this proprioceptive information is disrupted. Due to this disruption in the connection between the body and the brain, patients can feel a sense of disconnection, floating, or feeling like they're outside of their body.
What can be done to help rehabilitate a whiplash injury?
First and foremost, a comprehensive structural and neurological exam must be performed, including the appropriate imaging. After deterring the extent of the injury, a customized rehabilitation plan can then be structured in order to address the patient's specific needs surrounding the injury.
At Delta Neuro Health, we utilize a large tool box of therapy approaches to restore proper proprioceptive feedback after whiplash injury. This includes gentle chiropractic adjustments, cervical stability exercises, cervical reintegration exercises, and myofascial soft tissue work as indicated.
In conclusion, whiplash can be a debilitating and frustrating condition to live with. Don't put off seeking the appropriate care for longer than you need to. If you or someone you know is suffering from a whiplash injury, feel free to reach out to us at Delta Neuro Health, or give us a call at (614)-706-2093.
