Services
Whiplash
A sudden back-and-forth of the head and neck, and pain that can show up days later.
What happens in whiplash
Whiplash is a range of injuries to the neck caused by a sudden distortion of the neck, most often when a car is hit from behind. Doctors call the motion cervical acceleration–deceleration (CAD), and the injuries whiplash-associated disorders (WAD). It happens in four quick phases:
- Before The car is hit; your head and neck haven’t moved yet.
- Retraction Your body moves forward first. The neck bends into an S, the moment most injuries happen.
- Extension The head tips back until the head restraint stops it.
- Rebound The head snaps forward again.
During retraction the neck bends into an S-shaped curve: the upper neck bends forward while the lower neck bends back past its normal limits. That’s when most of the injury happens, usually around the C5 and C6 vertebrae of the lower neck.
Symptoms
- Pain and aching in the neck and back
- Pain that spreads to the shoulders
- Pins and needles in the arms or legs
- Headaches
Symptoms can start right after the injury, but often aren’t felt until days later. The neck and the middle of the back are hit most often, and pain between the shoulders and the neck is very common. It’s worth being checked after a crash even if you feel fine.
After a crash, get emergency care first for severe pain, numbness or weakness, a head injury, or if you can’t move your neck.
Ready when you are
Feel better, gently.
Request a time online and we’ll call to confirm, or just pick up the phone. Emergency care is available.
557 Greenleaf St., Park City, IL 60085