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Lincoln, NE 68516
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Whiplash/Auto Accidents Injury Treatment In Lincoln, NE

Dr. Shane Davidson DC Lincoln, NE Chiropractor

Whiplash/Auto Accidents Injury Specialist

A sudden jerk during an auto accident, our neck tissues extending beyond their normal range of motion is known as whiplash.  At our Novo Chiropractic Lincoln, the goal of chiropractic care in car accidents is to prevent further complications and provide a permanent solution. It’s better to consult an auto accident chiropractor for pain relief instead of relying on temporary OTC pain medications. According to Dr. Shane Davidson DC, a leading car accident chiropractor at Novo Chiropractic Lincoln, there may not be any immediate whiplash symptoms. However, do get examined because ignoring whiplash injuries can lead to long-term pain and discomfort. Our Lincoln chiropractor can help you to understand all about Whiplash’s injury through this article.

Symptoms Of Whiplash

There are various symptoms of whiplash to look out for like:

  • Neck pain and Stiffness in the neck
  • Neck pain that becomes progressively worse with movement
  • Reduced range of motion in neck and shoulders
  • Shoulder, arm, or upper back pain or tenderness
  • Radiating pain from the neck upward
  • Fatigue, Dizziness, or lack of coordination
  • Numbness in the neck and arms
  • Migraine-like headaches or increased frequency of headaches
  • Muscles Knots and cervical misalignments

Some less frequent symptoms of whiplash include:

  • Blurred vision in one or both eyes
  • Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears 
  • Irritability or mood swings
  • Trouble with concentration
  • Difficulty remembering things
  • Sleep disturbances including insomnia or inability to stay asleep
  • Depression or altered mood

Causes Of Whiplash

Sometimes an accident may forcefully push a vehicle in the opposite direction. This sudden impact can lead to the unnatural jerk of its occupants, frequently causing whiplash. As they are unprepared, the motion can lead to muscle damage or tears in the neck and damage the tendons and ligaments in the surrounding regions.

In addition to auto accidents, sporting injuries or other powerful traumas can lead to whiplash injuries.

Long-term Problems Due To Untreated Whiplash

Ignoring whiplash can result in a variety of long-term chronic conditions that can be debilitating. These include:

  • Osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that wears down the cartilage and causes recurring pain
  • Degenerative disc disease, where the cushioning between the vertebrae begins to deteriorate
  • Chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and back that continues to get worse over time

Treatment For Whiplash

Chiropractors provide a variety of treatments for whiplash.  Some of the chiropractic care options include:

Self Care

  • Ice packs to relieve pain caused by initial inflammation
  • Physical exercise to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the neck and back

Medications

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers, generally analgesic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen
  • Muscle relaxers to prevent you from tightening up and further aggravating your condition
  • Referral for narcotics/prescription Drugs – These are only used in the most severe cases and only temporarily

Therapies

  • Treatment techniques in Chiropractic care
    • Spinal Manipulation
    • Deep Tissue Massage
    • Muscle relaxation
    • Muscle stimulation
  • Physical Therapy Techniques
    • Stretching Exercises
    • Strengthening Exercises
    • Posture Improvement

Book An Appointment

Request an appointment online by calling us on (402) 817-7373

You can also use the online booking tool below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whiplash/Auto Accident Injury

Do chiropractors treat whiplash?

Chiropractic whiplash treatment includes various options based on the severity of the whiplash injuries.

Does Medical Insurance Cover Treatment For Auto Accident Injury/Whiplash?

In general, medical insurance or auto insurance covers whiplash treatment. It is essential to check with the medical insurance provider to ensure that they will provide coverage.

How long does it take for a whiplash of the neck to heal?

Whiplash recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Some people experience relief within a few days to weeks, while others might expect a recovery time of 10 weeks or longer. In general, there are 3 phases of soft tissue injuries:
  • Inflammatory Phase – this happens right after the injuries and lasts for up to 3 days.
  • Repair or Regeneration Phase – can last 6 to 8 weeks depending on the severity of the injury
  • Remodeling Phase – lasts 12 to 24 months

What is the best treatment for whiplash injury?

Chiropractic treatment is an effective option for whiplash injury sufferers looking for relief. After whiplash, seeing a chiropractor will provide various options, including spinal adjustments, massage, and physical therapy techniques to help maintain progress.

Can you heal from whiplash?

Do not ignore whiplash symptoms, even though they may resolve on their own. Some cases can get severe, which is where chiropractic care and therapy can help. While medication helps during recovery, it is not a cure for the underlying injuries caused by whiplash. 

What is the fastest way to recover from whiplash?

In the short term, painkillers and muscle relaxers can help with recovery. Even using hot and cold compresses and getting plenty of rest helps. Chiropractic treatment also helps with whiplash recovery as chiropractors are experts on the matter. 

How can I speed up my whiplash recovery?

Avoiding any activities or movements that will stress the neck or back helps speed up whiplash recovery. Chiropractors may also advise performing stretches and exercises for a quicker recovery.

What are the side effects of a car accident?

Car accidents can cause a variety of symptoms that may occur immediately or gradually over time. These include:
  • Pain in the neck or back
  • Stiffness in neck
  • Concussion
  • Headaches that get worse with time
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, neck, and hands
  • Irritability
  • Dizziness or confusion

How long are you sore after a car accident?

The length of soreness from whiplash after a car accident depends on the collision’s severity and the person. Some people find relief within days, while others might be sore for up to 6 weeks or even longer. It is essential always to see a chiropractor if you are involved in an accident.

Is it normal to throw up after a car accident?

Throwing up after a car crash can indicate a concussion or an even more severe injury to the brain. Nausea and vomiting can result from anxiety, but it’s best to seek medical attention to rule out any serious issues.

How long does it take to recover from soft tissue injury?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for this, as the recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. Minor injuries can heal within a few weeks, while severe injuries might take months or longer to heal. 

Can you get a concussion from a minor car accident?

It is possible to suffer from a concussion after a minor fender-bender. This is quite common. The angle of impact combined with hitting or jerking the head often leads to trauma. There are so many variables present during an accident it is best to get assessed by a chiropractor.

Can you sue for emotional distress from a car accident?

It is possible to recover compensation for emotional distress from a car accident if there is emotional damage. It is best to speak with an injury lawyer to decide if it is best to move forward with a lawsuit. 

What are the less frequent symptoms that include but are not limited to whiplash/auto car accident injury?

Some of the more uncommon symptoms of whiplash include:
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Inability to fall asleep or stay asleep
  • Loss of appetite
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
See a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

What are the long-term problems that can happen due to ignoring whiplash?

Ignoring whiplash can lead to more severe problems down the road, including chronic pain, recurring muscle spasms, and a limited range of motion in the neck. There may also be long-term damage to the cervical discs as well as osteoarthritis. 

Content Reviewed By

Dr. Shane Davidson Lincoln, NE Chiropractor
Doctor of Chiropractic
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