Today’s fast-paced lifestyle means we often push our bodies to the limit—whether on the road, at an amusement park, or in sports. But when a sudden jolt sends your head whipping forward or backward, it can cause more than just a brief scare. It could be whiplash, a common injury that demands more attention than many people give it. At Van Dam Chiropractic in Fargo, ND, we help patients recognize and recover from this serious spinal injury.
What Causes Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs when the neck is forcefully jerked forward and backward, often during car accidents, contact sports, amusement rides, or falls. This abrupt motion can injure intervertebral joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots in the cervical spine.
Symptoms may appear immediately or take days to surface. Common signs include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Shoulder or upper back pain
- Lower back discomfort
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Trouble focusing or remembering
- Sleep disturbances or irritability
Even if symptoms seem minor at first, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic issues. Research shows that nearly 50% of whiplash sufferers still experience symptoms years after the injury.
What Studies Say About Chiropractic and Whiplash
- Injury Journal: 93% of whiplash patients showed major improvement with chiropractic care, including spinal adjustments, stretching, and ice therapy.
- Journal of Orthopedic Medicine: Chiropractic was the only proven effective treatment in chronic whiplash cases.
- Journal of Manipulative Physiology and Therapy: Chiropractic care was found more effective than traditional medical approaches for managing chronic spinal pain.
Preventing and Treating Whiplash
While whiplash may be unavoidable in some situations, there are ways to reduce your risk: always use seat belts and headrests, wear protective gear during sports, and drive defensively. If you experience a head or neck jolt—even without immediate pain—consider scheduling a spinal evaluation.
At Van Dam Chiropractic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash with targeted chiropractic care designed to restore function, reduce inflammation, and prevent long-term damage.
Don’t ignore the warning lights your body sends. Call Van Dam Chiropractic in Fargo, ND at (701) 532-5320 to schedule a consultation and get on the path to healing and relief.
For Your Health,
Dr. Scott Van Dam
