Whiplash can be caused by roller coasters and athletic injuries too

Today, we know that whiplash injuries frequently do not result from hyperextension or hyperflexion (extension and flexion beyond normal physiological limits), but rather an extremely rapid extension and flexion that causes injuries. Damage to muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back can cause pain, stiffness and restricted range of motion. Damage to the ligaments often results in abnormal movement and instability.

Headaches
Headaches are the most prevalent complaint in a whiplash injury, affecting 80% of all people. Most headaches are related to injury of the muscles, ligaments and facet joints of the cervical spine, which refer pain to the head.

TMJTMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) resulting from whiplash usually begins as pain, clicking and popping noises in the jaw during movement. If not properly evaluated and treated, TMJ problems can continue to worsen and lead to headaches, facial pain, ear pain and difficulty eating.

Brain injuryMild to moderate brain injury is common following a whiplash injury. Patients can temporarily lose consciousness or have symptoms of a mild concussion. Long-term consequences can include mild confusion, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, irritability, forgetfulness, loss of sex drive, depression and emotional instability. The nerves responsible for your sense of smell, taste and even your vision may be affected.

DizzinessDizziness following a whiplash injury is usually temporary and improves significantly with chiropractic care. In some cases, injury to the brain or brain stem may be a factor as well.

Lower back pain
Low back pain is found in more than half of rear-impact collisions and in three-quarters of all side-impact crashes. Mild whiplash injuries heal within six to nine months. Chiropractic care is the single-most effective treatment for minimizing the long-term impact of whiplash injuries.