Frequently Asked Questions About Whiplash in Scottsdale

Our chiropractor in Scottsdale would like to help answer your questions about whiplash and severe neck sprains and strains, which is why we have created this FAQ.

1. What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Whiplash causes symptoms that get progressively worse with time instead of better. Common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness or loss of range of motion in the neck and severe headaches. In some instances, the neck injury may be so severe that it pinches a nerve, causing numbness and pain down one or both arms and pain in the upper back and shoulders.

2. What are common causes of whiplash?

Whiplash is most commonly caused by low-speed car accidents, especially when the driver is rear-ended. During the accident, your body is restrained by the seat belt while you head and neck are not as well restrained. This results in your head and neck being thrown forward until they reach the absolute ends of their ranges of motion, which stretches all of the soft tissues in your neck. This is why whiplash is often referred to as a severe sprain and strain of your neck. Other causes of severe neck sprains and strains include falling on concrete or a hard surface, getting tackled or getting hit in the head.

3. How long should I wait before seeking chiropractic care for a severe neck sprain or strain?

You should schedule an appointment for chiropractic care as soon as possible after your car accident, sports injury or fall. Our chiropractor would prefer to see you within 72 hours of your injury. This is because the symptoms of whiplash tend to get worse instead of better. While you are waiting for your appointment date and time, you can apply ice and/or heat to your neck, which may help your symptoms during the first 24 hours after your injury.

4. How can a chiropractor treat and help alleviate the symptoms of whiplash?

A chiropractor, like our very own Dr. Daniel P. Secrest, DC, offers many treatments that may help alleviate the symptoms of your whiplash. Common treatment options include chiropractic adjustments, KST, and cold laser therapy. Chiropractic adjustments are low amplitude thrusts that are designed to reposition subtly misaligned vertebrae, which are called subluxations. KST stands for the Korean Specific Technique, which is a specific type of adjustment that involves movement along with pressure.

Cold laser therapy is used to treat soft tissue injuries. It is believed to work by stimulating healing on a cellular level. Each cell is believed to have a light-sensitive area that can turn light into energy to help with cellular regeneration. Cold laser therapy has been known to help with inflammation and range of motion.

5. How can I make an appointment with Secrest Family Chiropractic?

You can make an appointment with Secrest family Chiropractic in Scottsdale by calling us at (480) 994-4411. When you call, ask us about our free complimentary consultations for new patients.