Experiencing pain in the neck and shoulder areas following an accident or injury is a sign of possible whiplash. Whiplash injuries occur when the head and neck are thrust in a particular direction with extensive force, then whipped back in the opposite direction. The whipping motion can damage spinal vertebrae, ligaments, discs, muscles, joints, and tendons. In Chula Vista, CA, whiplash treatment is available at Wachs Chiropractic Health Center under the care of Dr. Steven Wachs.

Signs of Whiplash Injury

Following a whiplash injury, symptoms are not always readily apparent for several days. It can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours for whiplash symptoms to be felt. However, even when pain is not experienced for several days, the injury can still be quite serious. Treatment is important to realign the spine following a whiplash injury. See a chiropractor in Chula Vista for whiplash treatment. Signs of whiplash injury include:

• Pain in the neck area
• Pain in the shoulder area
• Muscle spasms
• Pins and needles sensation
• Stiff neck
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Difficulty focusing

Whiplash Treatments

The pain, discomfort, and damage resulting from whiplash injuries can be treated and healed through a variety of treatments and techniques here in Chula Vista. One option is to use anti-inflammatory medications, which can ease the pain and discomfort associated with a whiplash injury. Physical therapy can realign the spine and heal spinal damage caused by whiplash. Physical therapy techniques that are particularly helpful in healing whiplash injuries include:

• Applying heat to the injury
• Gentle stretching
• Therapeutic massage
• Special exercises for strengthening the neck and back

If you are experiencing any of the signs of whiplash, see a chiropractor for treatment. There are various physical therapy techniques for healing the different types of spinal damage that can occur following a whiplash injury. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wachs, contact the Wachs Chiropractic Health Center by calling (619) 427-4747.