Whiplash: Getting Over it!
What Is Whiplash
• AKA Cervical Acceleration Deceleration (CAD)
• Accelerated hyperextension, than hyperflexion of the cervical spine resulting in injury to the spine and surrounding soft tissues.
• Most commonly from rear end collisions, however, side and frontal collisions as well.
Tips To Safe Driving
• Wear seat belt (saves lives, but 3 times more likely for injury)
• Brace yourself (muscles contract in 0.50 seconds, whiplash happens in 0.3 seconds, so be aware)
• Head restraint at least one inch above head
• Both arms on steering wheel
• Airbags (saves lives, but increase likelihood of injury)
• Different car (standard car seats not meant for everyone)
• Don't eat, talk on cell phone, write notes, etc. (too many distractions)
Studies
• 81% of all injuries occur at speeds below 30 mph.
(National Accident t Sampling System 1988-1990)
• 46% of whiplash victims continue to have chronic neck pain 2 years later
(Mcnab, Acceleration extension injuries of the cervical spine, 1982, vol. 2, p.654)
• 39% develop early degenerative joint disease seven years later.
(Hohl, 1974. Soft Tissue Injuries of the Neck in Automobile Accidents. 56A: 1675-1681)
Recommendation: Get checked as soon as you can by a chiropractic professional that has extensive trainings in whiplash type injuries. Your future spinal health will ultimately be affected by your healthcare decisions, so get checked!!
Like a car, your spine requires regular maintenance, from the stresses of gravity and everyday life. While you may own several cars throughout your lifetime, you only have one spine! Take care of it.
Dr. McRoberts has advanced certifications in whiplash care.
