Chiropractic Treatments for Whiplash in Vacaville

When whiplash has affected the cervical spine (neck), there is a combination of factors that causes pain in the neck and back, which ultimately needs to be determined by a Vacaville chiropractor.

Since whiplash affects every individual differently, it is impossible to generalize the chiropractic whiplash treatment for every person. Each whiplash injury should be uniquely approached, and any primary dysfunctions found during the chiropractic exam will be addressed right away.

Chiropractors would commonly implement different chiropractic treatment for whiplash, which includes the following:

• Manipulation
• Various exercises
• Ergonomic and lifestyle changes
• Muscle relaxation and/or stimulation

Chiropractic manipulation for whiplash in Vacaville

When joint dysfunction is present after a whiplash injury, spinal manipulation is the best choice of treatment. In this treatment, the chiropractor will gently move the involved joint into the direction in which it is restricted.

Another term for this is chiropractic adjustment and it may involve using a short thrust in that direction. However, there are instances that instead of a thrust, a slow mobilizing movement will be used.

Muscle relaxation or stimulation as whiplash treatments

Muscle relaxation and/or stimulation is the primary whiplash treatment for related muscle dysfunction. This form of treatment consists of gentle stretches to the muscle that has excessive tension or inhibited muscle that has repeated contractions.

For very tight muscles, a more vigorous stretch will be applied by the chiropractor. To relieve the pain for this one, gentle finger pressure techniques will be applied to trigger points.

McKenzie exercises and stabilization activities

A chiropractor will instruct you to do different types of exercises, which include McKenzie exercises and/or stabilization and sensorimotor exercise, to relieve pain and symptoms associated with a whiplash injury.

McKenzie exercises are designed to help reduce disc derangement caused by a whiplash injury. It involves simple movements that are normally done in the office but can be easily transitioned to self-care at home. This can also help the patient take an active role during his or her own recovery.

Stabilization and sensory-motor exercises are designed to correct faulty movement patterns in your daily activities and everyday life. This treatment will train the nervous system to have better coordination and control movement patterns, while also improving the neck muscle's ability to maintain neck stability.

These exercises are made for major trauma events or even in a "micro-trauma" from simple things like playing sports or doing occupational or home jobs requiring physical effort.

Chiropractic advice on lifestyle changes

These whiplash treatments are more focused on the improvement of performing daily activities with minimal strain to the body. This addresses the factors involved in the individual's home, work or recreational activities that perpetuate the dysfunctions caused by the whiplash accident.

Additionally, spine care professionals may even teach patients a better "use of self" and if ever, educate them about reduction methods to help chiropractic problems.

Whiplash treatment in chiropractic care

The whiplash treatment plan developed for every specific problem may include one or more of these approaches while also involving others as well.

In addition to the whiplash treatment plan, the chiropractor may even refer the patient to another health professional if the situation is deemed appropriate.