Whiplash Injuries
Every week, thousands of people are involved in low-speed motor vehicle accidents (MVA). A common injury arising from these collisions is a flexion/extension or whiplash trauma, usually involving the neck. Immediate symptoms may include everything from mild neck stiffness or headache to severe neck and head pain, disorientation, nausea, and/or tremors. In some instances the victim experiences pain immediately after the collision, but it is not uncommon for symptoms to not become apparent for hours or even days after the accident. Because of the large forces involved (weight of the car multiplied by its speed), a potential for injury exists even when vehicle speed is relatively slow and external damage to the car is minimal.
The classic case of flexion extension injury involves a rear end collision into a stopped vehicle. The driver and passengers of the stopped vehicle are generally the most affected. In a typical case, the driver of the stopped vehicle is relaxed and unaware of what is about to happen. The striking vehicle imparts an immediate force into the vehicle equivalent to its weight multiplied by its velocity. This instantly accelerates the first vehicle (visualize a pool ball striking another pool ball). As the struck vehicle rapidly moves, the driver's body will move with the car, but his head and neck will tend to be bent backward violently (extension), and as the vehicle stops the head will snap forward (flexion). In some cases a high-speed impact may cause only a slight injury while a lower speed accident may produce a more serious injury. This can be explained by looking into some of the other variables in the accident.
Many things play a part in the amount of injury caused to the person involved in a vehicle collision. For example, a bigger and heavier car striking a smaller car imparts much more force. Collapsing bumpers and auto body parts can absorb force. The position and awareness of the driver can be very important. Staring straight ahead with the head firmly seated in the head rest is ideal. The physical condition of the driver is important. A young, well-conditioned person with good muscle tone is likely to have a less serious injury. Seat belts play a major role, as well as airbags. These are just a few of the things, which have to be considered when evaluating the potential injury caused by an accident.
Any person involved in an automobile collision should be evaluated for potential injury. Even though initial symptoms may be mild or not apparent, an untreated injury can lead to long-term health problems, such as loss of joint motion, arthritis, or even disc degeneration. Most whiplash related injuries respond very well to chiropractic care. If chiropractic care is not indicated in a particular case, we will quickly refer that patient. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident or know someone who has, please do not hesitate to call our office to speak to Dr. Mikkelson, who will gladly answer any questions you may have.