Chiropractic Treatment for Whiplash

 Chiropractic Treatment Techniques

Chiropractors use different techniques to treat patients with whiplash including spinal manipulation, muscle stimulation, and exercise programs.  The type of treatment depends on the severity of the injury and is determined after the chiropractic exam.  Spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment, involves the chiropractor moving the joint into the opposite direction.  This technique helps restore mobility within the spine and reduces pain or tenderness in the muscles.  The chiropractor may also use a technique called muscle stimulation.  During muscle stimulation treatment, the physician will use stretching techniques on muscles that are tense or inhibited.  If the muscle is extremely tight, the physician will apply pressure with their finger tips on the sore muscle.  Massaging the muscle will reduce tension and pain.       

Exercise Treatments

Chiropractors may use McKenzie exercises for whiplash treatment.  These exercises are specifically used to treat patients with injuries related to whiplash.   McKenzie exercises are easy to do in the office and at home.  The techniques improve the arrangement of discs in the back which reduces the pain and soreness.  Stabilization exercises are used to help patients who have encountered trauma or a fall related accidents as well as whiplash.  Exercise treatments help control the nervous system to improve coordination and movements within the neck.  After treatment, it is important that the patient does minimal activities that can cause strain to the body.  The physician will explain different activities to avoid at home or work that can cause more strain on the injury.