Can You Get a Herniated Disc from Whiplash?
Herniated discs occur when the impact of one car hitting another damages the spongy pads separating each spinal vertebrae. Pain, weakness in the back and numbness results from the inability of a vertebral disc to protect nerve endings that extend into the spinal column. Additionally, lower back disc injuries commonly cause sciatica, a pinched nerve disorder associated with shooting back pains and restricted mobility.
Herniated Disc
Whiplash injuries are not directly attributed to the development of herniated discs, but you can receive a herniated disc or worsen an existing herniated disc if you are involved in medium to high-speed car accidents. Whiplash and herniated discs may also be co-occurring injuries that produce similar symptoms such as pain, weakness and numbness in the neck, chest, shoulders and arms. If the herniated disc is larger than normal, it can cause tingling and numbness in the legs and feet as well.
Vertebral Subluxations
A vertebral subluxation (misalignment of the spinal vertebrae) can cause auto accident injury victims numerous health problems ranging from migraines to chronic fatigue to joint and neck pain. Irritation of spinal nerves compressed by misaligned vertebrae interferes with nerve signals traveling from one system of the body to the other.
By implementing an adjustment and manipulation procedure, a chiro near you will correct subluxations so that your spine is aligned, and nerves are no longer subjected to intense pressure and inflammation. In addition, realigning the spine reduces back pain caused by whiplash when muscles and other soft tissues start to receive rich amounts of oxygenated blood and nutrients following release of compressed spinal nerves.
Pinched Nerves
Victims of auto accidents may suffer pinched nerves (cervical radiculopathy) when cervical nerves supplying sensation to the neck, arms and shoulders are irritated by a ruptured disc or bone spurs. Radiating pain, numbness and weakness into corresponding areas are classic symptoms of pinched nerves that will worsen unless treated with chiropractic techniques are employed. Chiropractors in your area will give treatments such as spinal adjustments and decompression therapy. Realigning the spine removes pressure from nerves caused by displaced vertebrae and/or spinal discs.
What about head injuries?
Concussions
Concussions can be very common after an automobile accident. If this condition is missed or delayed in treatment, the condition can become serious or life-threatening. Many of the symptoms are evident directly after an accident, such as disorientation or loss of consciousness. However, other symptoms of a concussion are not as obvious. These problems can include blurred vision, dizziness, memory loss, mood swings or fatigue.
Keep in mind that your primary care for a concussion should be an MD or emergency room facility. However, chiropractic care can assist with pain management and aftercare. Here are some of the suggested after treatments for a concussion.
Treating Concussions
Get treatment from a chiropractor nearby. The impact causing a concussion often will also affect the cervical spine. Finding chiropractic care can assist in re-aligning the cervical spine to prevent any further symptoms. It is also suggested that you allow your brain to rest by avoiding screens. This includes television, phones, or tablets. Rest is also essential to concussion recovery. Avoid all activities that aggravate your head injury and use this time to rest and recover.
If You Feel Fine After Being Involved in a Car Accident, Should You Still See a Chiropractor?
Yes! It is critical that you find out where is the nearest chiropractor after an auto accident. The accident could have involved hyperflexion and hyperextension of your neck and upper back muscles. The effects of soft tissue trauma may not emerge for several days or even weeks later as the shock of the accident gradually subsides and your body ceases releasing endorphins that once helped minimize pain and inflammation naturally. Locating chiropractors open near you will help decrease the pain and timespan of this injury.