Whiplash Syndrome Treatment
One of the most common types of auto accident and fall injuries to the neck is whiplash. When the body suffers an impact of force, the neck can be thrust backward and forward, injuring the tissues surrounding the cervical spine, causing a neck sprain, strain or other injuries. If you have whiplash syndrome, treatment is available at DOCS Health in Los Angeles.
Whiplash is an injury of the neck caused by a violent forward and backward motion. In auto accidents, this is most likely caused when a vehicle is rear-ended, as the head and neck jerk backward at impact then snap forward. Whiplash can also be caused in sports injuries or falls. In most cases, the primary injuries are to the ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues supporting the neck, which can heal with treatment over the following weeks. However, it is possible for more serious injuries to occur to the cervical spine, resulting in chronic neck pain.
Symptoms of Whiplash Syndrome
Although whiplash syndrome is common, it is important to receive proper treatment. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical care can ensure that injuries are addressed quickly with the right treatment. Symptoms of whiplash syndrome include:
- Neck or upper back pain
- Headache
- Neck tenderness or stiffness
- Radiating pain into shoulder or arm
- Tingling, numbness or weakness radiating into the arm
In most cases, acute whiplash syndrome can be effectively treated with conservative treatments. Pain medications such as ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, physical therapy, ice and massage may be recommended. For chronic neck pain caused by whiplash syndrome, other treatments like injection therapy or surgery may be required.
If you have suffered a neck injury and symptoms of whiplash syndrome, treatment and diagnosis are available at DOCS Health. Contact the team at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles to schedule a whiplash syndrome exam and consultation.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.