Neck Injury Chiropractor: Whiplash Associated with Prior Herniated Discs

Various injuries can be caused by automobile crashes. One of the most frequent car accidents is the collision in which a vehicle is hit from behind. If you have been in these events you may be receiving neck pain therapy for a accident called whiplash that occurs when an occupant of this vehicle is thrust forth and back.

This injury may cause a herniated disc in the cervical (neck) area, in addition to a variety of other symptoms. A whiplash injury can include neurological impairment in mobility, joint aches, problems with concentration and chronic pain. Besides damaging the delicate tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) that maintain the neck, it may also harm the cervical spine (the neck region of the backbone), inducing a herniated disc in the neck. The herniation can compress the nearby nerves, causing pain. Symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck may include tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness.

Pain from Previously Existing Conditions

In a study published in the journal Spine, doctors found that disabling pain in the back following whiplash may be due to a previously disc in the spine. These conditions may present no symptoms that are apparent before the accident. The researchers further concluded that pain was successfully treated following microdiscectomies for these discs.

Symptoms from whiplash injuries cannot be necessarily resolved with neck pain treatment, and can be tricky to diagnose since the pain lower back and even in the shoulder region can radiate to other regions of the body. It can be especially challenging for the physician when symptoms are vague and non-localized.

When the natural reactions of the body don’t operate properly, injuries occur. In the normal state, a C-shape is maintained by the cervical spine. On an S-shape as the portion extends and the upper portion of this area flexes, the individual’s cervical spine takes upon impact from behind. This phenomenon risks herniating a disc or tearing a ligament. If the human body’s protective response is working correctly, it will recognize the impact and signal the cervical muscles and make a supportive scaffold for the cervical spine and ligaments.

Although pain can heal on its own it may often require therapy. A treatment program for a herniated disc in the neck may consist of anti-inflammatory pain medication, rest, and physical therapy. With these conservative treatments, the symptoms generally improve over time. But if imaging tests find out that the damaged disc is compressing nearby nerves and/or the spinal cord, or if symptoms persist despite the treatment, neck surgery may be considered.

There are a few things you can do in order to stop whiplash injuries requiring neck pain treatment and increased risk for pain . These include maintaining fitness and good posture. You can start focusing on those goals.

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss options on the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . 

By Dr. Alex Jimenez

Additional Topics: Automobile Accident Injuries

Whiplash, among other automobile accident injuries, are frequently reported by victims of an auto collision, regardless of the severity and grade of the accident. The sheer force of an impact can cause damage or injury to the cervical spine, as well as to the rest of the spine. Whiplash is generally the result of an abrupt, back-and-forth jolt of the head and neck in any direction. Fortunately, a variety of treatments are available to treat automobile accident injuries.

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