Whiplash injuries myths and truths

Posted on Aug 26, 2018


Whiplash is usually associated with car crashes, whereas a person’s head jerked forward or backward suddenly and… pain resulted. Basically, with whiplash, that sudden force stretches and/or tears the muscles and tendons in a person’s neck, and that hurts!

What are some whiplash injury myths and truths?

Perhaps the main myth out there is that the vehicle’s speed of impact predicts the whiplash injury. You’d assume if the car or truck is going really fast, then automatically the whiplash injury will be more severe? That’s a myth. The speed of impact doesn’t matter. The truth is a person’s whiplash injury can be serious even with what others would consider a minor “fender bender.”

Another myth is that a person will feel whiplash symptoms right away after the accident. Honestly, it might take years before the pain starts in some cases. There’s even a name for this: “delayed onset whiplash associated disorder.” So, perhaps you were in a crash years ago but initially felt fine– but now, years later, you’ve got neck, head and shoulder pain? It could be that!

Here’s something that has been found to be true: if a person had their head turned to one side during a low speed crash, then they are less likely to develop whiplash. Interesting, right? So keep that in mind should you ever be put into that position– turning your head before impact could help prevent future problems. Posture matters when it comes to whiplash.

Chiropractors can really help people with whiplash injuries, which often involve subtle vertebral subluxations. Basically, with whiplash, spinal bones (vertebrae) may have become misaligned. The chiropractor’s job is to align them, thus taking away the pain and helping the nervous system return to normal.

If you or someone you know has been in a car accident, it’s a good idea to visit Dr. Gerard at Lakewoods Chiropractic in Forest Lake, MN, for an evaluation. Whiplash not only can cause neck problems, but also bother both the back, and, indeed, the whole body, leading to cognitive and emotional problems. The sooner the body is checked and “adjusted” after the traumatic event, the better! Please call the Lakewoods clinic at 651-464-0800 to make an appointment.

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Lakewoods Chiropractic
Lakewoods Chiropractic
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SALLY DETLEFSEN
SALLY DETLEFSEN
September 26, 2022.
I am amazed at how much better I feel since coming to Lakewoods. The doctors and staff are amazing.
Lukas Drayna
Lukas Drayna
September 21, 2022.
Great friendly staff. They focus on the target area’s to ensure your body is happy and healthy !
Michael F.
Michael F.
September 13, 2022.
Lakewoods Chiropractic is awesome. Friendly, welcoming, and professional Environment. They make you feel comfortable. Definitely recommend Lakewoods. I'm well on the road to recovery. Keep up the good work.
tone2403
tone2403
August 30, 2022.
Definitely recommend Lakewoods. When I went in I was in very rough shape. After a few weeks of adjustments I'm feeling better then ever. Great staff and very knowledgeable. They take the time to really make you understand the process.
Eric Russell
Eric Russell
August 25, 2022.
Jason and his staff are the best. Since my 1st visit, they always informed on your progress and had your health as #1 priority.
Angel L Colon Jr
Angel L Colon Jr
August 11, 2022.
Excellent service, friendly accommodating staff. Awesome family friendly services. Highly recommend!!!
Carrie Davis
Carrie Davis
August 3, 2022.
By far the best chiropractor I’ve ever used. They customize a plan just for you and don’t use a one size fits all approach. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!! Thank you!!!
Justin W
Justin W
July 28, 2022.
Great place!
Jennifer Thelen
Jennifer Thelen
July 21, 2022.
I have been experiencing low back pain for at least 10 rememberable years and decided on a whim to try chiropractic care at Lakewoods. I had never been to a chiropractor before so I had no expectations that it would work or not but after just my first adjustment I had instant relief for the first time in 10 years. I have since been super impressed with how everything has been explained to me and how my care plan has been formed. The staff are all very kind and have been very helpful as well!