Have you ever seen a whip snap? That’s how whiplash injury got its name. A snapping whip is how your neck moves in the event of a car accident or injury. A sudden jolting or jerking of the head or neck, causing them to move forward or backward, may lead to unwanted injuries. A Blair upper cervical chiropractor in Sioux Falls is not new to attending to patients suffering from whiplash.

Some people who have been in a car accident may tend to downplay their pain and injuries, especially if these are just minor ones thinking nothing like getting home and getting a good rest can’t fixed. However, it’s still essential to seek proper medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. This is because some injuries, such as whiplash, may not present symptoms immediately.

Sudden and unnatural movements such as whiplash can damage the muscles and soft tissues in your neck area. This is because they’re stretched beyond the normal range. Usually, whiplash happens due to rear-end car accidents, but other physically traumatic incidents can also cause it to happen, such as:

• Sports injuries, particularly from contact sports
• physical abuse
• Falls or slips accidents
• Amusement park rides such as roller coasters
• Skiing accidents
• Horseback riding
• Bicycle accidents

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Whiplash?

If you have been involved in a car accident recently, there’s a high chance that whiplash will occur. You may wonder how long it will take to recover from your injuries as soon as you start noticing symptoms. 

Some people may recover from whiplash injuries and return to their usual routine after a few days or weeks. Most patients tend to feel better without complications or lasting effects from a whiplash injury. Most people suffering from whiplash can continue their routine as they improve. Engaging in movement and being active is also encouraged to aid in your recovery. 

However, some cases of whiplash can persist for months or even years. Some symptoms can manifest longer, with severe cases experiencing whiplash symptoms for at least one year. Some patients who experience an initial case of whiplash still have at least one significant whiplash symptom seven years after the injury.

Whiplash can impact your daily routine and reduce your overall quality of life. Those dealing with long-term whiplash effects may require ongoing medical care and time away from work. Some patients reach out to a Blair upper cervical chiropractor in Sioux Falls for whiplash care.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Whiplash symptoms may take hours or even days to appear following an accident. This delayed onset can make it difficult to seek proper care right away. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of and understand the signs and symptoms of whiplash so that you can get the care you need as soon as possible. Some common symptoms of whiplash include: 

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches (mostly the base of the skull)
• Problems with balance
• Dizziness
• Fatigue 
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands 
• Blurred vision 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Irritability or mood swings 

If any of these symptoms occur after an accident, you should see a doctor immediately. A medical professional can diagnose whiplash and rule out other potential injuries. You may also benefit from seeking care from a Blair upper cervical chiropractor in Sioux Falls. 

How Dangerous is Whiplash?

Whiplash can be dangerous, especially when not given adequate care. Apart from experiencing pain, your range of motion may also be affected. Unfortunately, not many know how risky it can be to experience whiplash. Hence, ignoring the pain and not seeking proper care is just a recipe for pain and discomfort that may lead to long-term effects and chronic disability. 

Remember, whiplash may not be immediately apparent. The signs and symptoms of whiplash may manifest several days after the accident. So, watch out for debilitating and painful symptoms days after your injury or accident.

Upper Cervical Care for Whiplash 

Many patients pursuing a natural whiplash method get upper cervical chiropractic care. This non-invasive method corrects misalignment in your upper cervical spine involving your top two bones, the atlas and the axis.

Whiplash injury can be the cause of misalignment in your upper cervical spine. These bones are prone to misalignment because of their position, and a sudden and unexpected neck movement may cause them to move away from their correct alignment. This can trigger different symptoms that can bring you pain and discomfort. 

Upper cervical care is safe, gentle, and precise and has helped many patients get relief from their whiplash symptoms quickly and effectively. If symptoms from a whiplash injury have been interfering with your life, you may benefit from upper cervical chiropractic care. 

Visit a Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractor in Sioux Falls

Stop wondering how long it will take to recover from your whiplash injury and take action starting today. A person’s recovery process varies depending on the severity of their injury and each individual’s unique healing process. While most people will experience relief from their symptoms within a few weeks, some may require longer than a few weeks.

Let us help you in your recovery from a whiplash injury. Your bruises and sore muscles may heal independently, but an upper cervical misalignment will require correction only from a trained and certified professional. 

Dr. Casey Weerheim is a go-to Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractor in Sioux Falls. To book your appointment, call our office at (605) 250-2024 or use our online contact form on our website.

Let us help you restore balance and alignment in your spine for a healthier and improved quality of life.