Could whiplash be the cause of your neck pain? Although whiplash often occurs after vehicular accidents, you can develop the condition even if you haven't been in a car crash. Edmonton chiropractors Dr. Christopher Oviatt and Dr. Michelle Martinook of Castledowns Chiropractic Clinic offer several treatments that can help relieve your neck pain.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash occurs when your neck is forced forward then backward unexpectedly or from side to side. The quick movement can damage muscles, tendons, ligaments, vertebrae and discs in your neck, causing mild to excruciating pain, depending on the severity of your injury. Any sudden blow to your body or head can cause the condition. You may notice whiplash symptoms after:

• Forceful contact with another player or the ground when playing sports,
• A bumpy ride on a rollercoaster
• A fall when snowboarding or skiing

Even seemingly minor falls or accidents can cause whiplash. It's more likely to occur after a vehicular accident if your car or truck is struck from behind, no matter what how fast you're traveling at the time.

What are common whiplash symptoms?

Pain, the most obvious symptom of whiplash, may vary in intensity. You may notice slight pain when you turn your head or may be in such severe pain that it's not even possible to turn your head one inch. Pain may extend to your shoulders, upper back, arms and hands.

You may also experience other symptoms, such as:

• Headaches
• Muscle spasms
• Decreased range of motion
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Blurry vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Fatigue and insomnia
• Depression or irritability

How can a visit to my Edmonton chiropractor help me?

Your chiropractor offers a variety of treatments that can relieve your pain, promote healing and improve your ability to move your neck. They may use spinal manipulation to correct the alignment of your vertebrae, recommend massage therapy to loosen tight muscles, or utilize instrument-assisted adjustments. Your chiropractor may also recommend exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles in your neck.

Chiropractic treatment can help speed your recovery from whiplash! Call Edmonton chiropractors Dr. Christopher Oviatt and Dr. Michelle Martinook of Castledowns Chiropractic Clinic at (780) 457-3621 to schedule your appointment.