Whiplash Treatment in Northern Indiana

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jolted forward and then snapped back due to a sudden impact, commonly associated with car accidents. This rapid movement can strain the neck’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments causing pain and discomfort.

At OSMC, our skilled orthopedic specialists are well-equipped to diagnose and treat whiplash, providing you with the expert care you need to recover and regain your quality of life. Count on us to guide you through your journey to a pain-free and fully functional neck.

What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?

Recognizing the symptoms of whiplash is crucial for seeking timely and appropriate care. Common signs to be aware of include:

• Neck pain - Aching or stiffness in the neck, often developing within a day or two after the injury
• Limited range of motion - Difficulty moving the neck due to pain and muscle tightness
• Headaches - Tension headaches originating from the base of the skull
• Shoulder and upper back pain - Discomfort extending to the shoulders and upper back
• Tingling or numbness - Sensations of tingling or numbness in the arms
• Dizziness - Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, occasionally accompanied by blurred vision
• Fatigue - Experiencing fatigue or difficulty sleeping due to pain and discomfort

If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms after an incident involving sudden impact, seek treatment to determine your injury status.

How do You Get Whiplash?

Understanding the mechanisms that lead to whiplash is essential for effective treatment and recovery. Whiplash typically occurs when the head undergoes a rapid and forceful back-and-forth movement, causing the neck’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments to be strained.

Common causes of whiplash include:

• Car accidents - Rear-end collisions are a frequent cause due to the abrupt impact
• Sports injuries - Contact sports or activities involving sudden impact
• Physical assault - A blow to the head from behind
• Accidental falls - Falls where the head jerks backward upon impact

What are the Treatments for Whiplash?

Effective treatment for whiplash is essential for a full recovery. Depending on the severity of your
condition, treatment options may include:

• Rest and ice - Initial rest and apply ice packs to reduce inflammation
• Pain medications - Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications to manage discomfort
• Physical therapy - Targeted exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and range of motion
• Heat therapy - Application of heat to relax muscles and relieve tension
• Neck collar or brace - Supportive devices to stabilize the neck during healing
• Manual therapy - Hands-on techniques by skilled therapists to alleviate pain and promote healing
• Home exercises - Specific exercises to continue your recovery between appointments

Whiplash Care in Michiana

Experience specialized care for whiplash at OSMC, your trusted orthopedic destination in Michiana. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a sudden impact incident, our skilled orthopedic specialists are here to provide expert evaluation and personalized treatment options.

For more information, give us a call or schedule an appointment online with one of our neck and spine specialists. Our orthopedic clinic has multiple locations. We serve patients in Elkhart, IN, Goshen, IN, Granger, IN, Middlebury, IN, and Nappanee, IN. We also have two walk-in orthopedic clinics.