Learn about Safe Whiplash Pain Relief with SE Portland Chiropractor

Whiplash is an injury to the neck, caused by a forceful back and forth neck movement, similar to cracking a whip. Whiplash injuries most frequently occur due to a rear-end car accident, but they can also be caused by a sports accident, by physical abuse, or by some other trauma. The most common symptoms and signs of whiplash are stiffness, neck pain, and headaches. Whiplash may also be referred to as neck strain, but other types of injuries can cause sprains as well. Although many people recover from whiplash within a few months after using pain medication, many other people find that their whiplash has left them with chronic neck pain, among other complications.

How can a SE Portland chiropractor provide safe whiplash pain relief?

• Every whiplash injury is unique, so a chiropractor will first do a complete chiropractic exam, which might include x-rays or MRIs.
• The SE Portland chiropractor will then begin gentle spinal manipulation, which involves moving the affected joint in the direction in which it's restricted. This spinal manipulation, also called a chiropractic adjustment, may involve applying short thrusts in the restricted direction. Sometimes, slow mobilizing movements, instead of thrusts, are used a chiropractor.
• Related muscle dysfunction may be addressed by using gentle muscle stretches to any muscle with excess tension, or that is inhibited in its movements, to encourage muscle relaxation. If a muscle is extremely tight, an SE Portland chiropractor may apply more vigorous stretches, as well as use gentle finger pressure to trigger points for relief of tight muscle pain.
• Other exercises may be used, including the McKenzie exercises, as well as sensorimotor and stabilization exercises. McKenzie exercises are simple movements designed to diminish disc derangement that's related to the whiplash injury. These exercises are done first in the chiropractor's office, but can make an easy transition to home self-care.

By using the movements and exercises listed above, an SE Portland chiropractor is frequently successful in relieving the patient's immediate pain, as well as teaching them exercises that will provide stress reduction and less pain in the future.