Whiplash FAQs

Whiplash refers to the sudden, extreme, high-speed motion of the head as it in one direction and then suddenly in another in response to an impact. This motion, which resembles the lash of a whip, can cause serious damage to the neck’s components, in the form of torn muscles, pinched nerves, and spinal misalignment.

Automobile collisions are notorious for causing whiplash to the vehicle occupants, even if the vehicles involved were moving at a low speed. However, you can also get whiplash if your body receives a sharp impact in a sports injury, workplace injury, or personal injury at home.

Severe neck pain and stiffness are the hallmark signs that you have sustained a whiplash injury. You may also experience shoulder pain, jaw pain, and headaches. Some people experience mental confusion, mood changes, or vision and hearing problems. Nerve compression in your cervical spine may create nerve symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or pain in your arms and hands. A severe spinal misalignment may even alter the curve of your neck.

While you may know right away that an automobile collision or another high-impact accident has damaged your neck, you cannot assume that the absence of symptoms means there is no injury. Shock can release adrenaline into the body, delaying symptoms until you have already done further damage to your neck. It is smart to schedule an evaluation from one of our Saint Cloud chiropractors at our clinic as soon as possible, whether you feel pain or not.

Our team will diagnose your whiplash using a combination of X-rays, physical examination, and discussion of any symptoms you are currently experiencing. Chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine can reposition your misaligned joints and herniated discs, relieving headaches, neck pain, and neurological symptoms. We also offer massage therapy and corrective exercises to help your neck tissues repair themselves naturally.