A whiplash injury is generally caused from a flexion/extension injury. Usually this is caused from a car accident in which you come to a sudden stop, or are struck from behind. When this type of accident occurs, more than likely you will sustain a Whiplash Injury, regardless of how you feel. The beginning signs can be as little as tightness or soreness in either the neck or back, and as severe as an immediate headache or severe pain with limited range of motion.

When this occurs, soft tissues(muscle, tendons, ligaments and cartilage) can be damaged. These tissues will have tears on a microscopic level or complete separation in worse cases. Because of this, the bones and vertebra, will be affected. Skeletal misalignments occur and in worse cases, fractures or dislocations within the joint occur.

It is imperative that after the injury that you seek medical attention by a qualified practitioner that can properly diagnosis your injuries. Physical Examination, Orthopedic Examination, X-Ray and MRI’s are often required. These tests help specifically pinpoint your problem and help dictate the treatment that your require for your full recovery.

Regardless of how you feel, or what treatment you do or do not seek, from the time of your injury forward, your body will begin to heal. Any whiplash injury that goes untreated, regardless of the severity, will cause future health problems, premature degeneration and can lead to a chronic condition. In general, you have 90 days to seek active treatment before irreversible damage can occur. Full recovery from a Whiplash injury can take 3-12 months depending on the severity of your injury. The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances for a full recovery. Otherwise, if left untreated, there is greater than a 50% chance that you will have a Chronic Condition that will give you problems for the rest of your life and possibly untreatable or require future surgery.