An estimate of 2 million Americans is suffering from whiplash every year. Whiplash, also known as neck strain or sprain, happens when the head suddenly snaps forward, then back. It moves in a whip-like motion that causes the joints, ligaments, and muscles of the neck and upper back to overstretch. In most cases, whiplash happens during a car accident.

To know more about this injury, here are some whiplash facts:

1. It doesn't require a lot of force - Most whiplash injuries that happen during a car accident came from those that are running at a speed of as low as 5 to 10mph. The severity of the injury will depend on how you're properly restrained. This is the reason why wearing a seatbelt inside a moving car is particularly important.
2. Whiplash doesn't only happen in car accidents - The most common cause of whiplash is during a front- or rear-impact accident, but it can actually happen at any time. You can still get whiplash from a fall, or by doing high-impact sports like boxing, football, gymnastics, skiing, or snowboarding.
3. Don't shrug off the symptoms - Neck pain is very common after a whiplash injury. However, some people don't experience the pain right away and it may set-in after a few hours, days or even weeks. A later onset of the symptoms doesn't indicate an even serious injury, but no matter how soon or late the pain starts, don't ignore it.
   • Even if the neck pain is caused by a minor mishap, have it evaluated by your doctor right away. Imaging tests are the best options since it could ensure that there are no dislocations or fractures.
   • Most cases of neck pain disappear on its own within a month. But if it lasts longer or you start developing other symptoms - such as dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, shoulder pain, or difficulty concentrating, swallowing, or sleeping - you should check with your doctor for further evaluation.
4. Aging can increase the risk of whiplash injuries - The elderly, and those who have a preexisting neck problem like arthritis, will experience a more serious whiplash compared to the younger generation.
   • As people get older, their movements become limited, their discs and ligaments are not that stretchy anymore, and their muscles start to lose their strength and flexibility. So, when a sudden forward and back movement happens on their neck, there's a possibility that more damage will be inflicted.
5. In a whiplash, rest equals rust - People who are in any type of injury would want to limit their movements because they fear that it may make the pain even worse. However, resting for a few days can even cause the muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders to become weak and stiff, thereby prolonging the pain.
   • To ensure the health and flexibility of your neck, you should resume your normal routine as soon as your doctor sends out the go signal. Your doctor may even prescribe physical therapy that will help reduce the symptoms and recondition the muscles. Even if you have to ease into your routine slowly, don't let the fear of pain keep you from doing what you love in life.

With that in mind, you'd better call (707) 474-5688 to get an appointment with Dr. Alex Tam of Absolute Family Chiropractic. This top chiropractic and holistic center is your number one stop to get help for whiplash and improve the overall quality of your health.