Do you know the difference between whiplash and concussion? If not, you should! The main difference between whiplash and concussion is that a whiplash is primarily a physical injury that affects the neck due to sudden head movement, while a concussion is a brain injury caused by a sudden impact or movement of the head. A concussion is a more serious injury than whiplash and can result in long-term health problems. Here's what you need to know about these two injuries and how to identify them in the aftermath of a car accident.

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is an often debilitating neck injury caused when someone's head suddenly snaps back when they are stretched. Symptoms may include a sudden headache, neck pain, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Whiplash injuries can occur in any position (standing or sitting), but are most common when the head is whipped from side to side (involving the cervical spine). Treatment typically involves ice and medication for headaches and neck pain, depending on the severity of the injury.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Symptoms of whiplash depend on the severity of the injury. Mild whiplash may only cause a headache and neck pain, while more severe injuries can result in dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms following an accident involving head movement, be sure to seek medical attention.

• Stiffness or pain in the neck

• Pain increases with neck movements

• Tenderness or painful upper back, shoulder or arms

• Headache, commonly forming at the base of the skull

• Loss of neck motion

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury resulting from a sudden movement or a hit to the head. Symptoms may start immediately after the impact or might not appear for hours or days later. Concussions can range in severity from mild (a headache, dizziness, nausea) to severe (passing out, loss of consciousness). In many cases, symptoms will go away on their own within a few weeks, but some people may experience lingering effects such as difficulty concentrating and memory issues.

Symptoms of a Concussion

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a concussion, it's important to know the signs and symptoms and seek medical care.

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Head pressure

• Dizziness

• Mental fogginess or confusion

• Slurred speech

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Memory loss, specifically about the actions that caused the trauma

• Lack of concentration

• Sleep issues

• Uncontrollable fatigue

• Trouble forming verbal responses

• Anxiety

• Irritability

• Issues with smell or taste

• Depression

• Personality changes or mood swings

• Sensitivity to noise and/or light

Chiropractic Care after A Concussion Diagnosis

Chiropractic care is often recommended following a concussion diagnosis and can improve symptoms, such as a stiff neck, and help to speed up recovery. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help resolve injury, and they often have experience working with athletes in contact sports. If you have been diagnosed with a concussion and are looking for additional ways to heal, consider visiting a chiropractor. They can help you feel better quickly and regain health and mobility.

Chiropractic Treatments for Whiplash

Whiplash injuries can be treated with chiropractic care, just like concussion treatments. Chiropractors use various techniques to help resolve the injury, including adjustments and spinal manipulation, such as:

• Instrument-assisted manipulation - This involves chiropractors using specific instruments, such as a traction device or an activator, to help stimulate the neck and relieve pain.

• Specific spinal manipulation – This type of chiropractic treatment involves adjusting the spine to induce movement into the vertebrae and improve spinal stability.

• Soft tissue therapy - Involves using manual therapy and other techniques to help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Tripper point therapy - Tripper point therapy is a chiropractic treatment involving applying pressure to trigger points within the muscle.

When Should You See a Chiropractor for Whiplash or Concussion?

When you get hurt, you may be wondering when you should see a chiropractor. This is a tough question to answer because it largely depends on the severity of your injury. However, some general guidelines can help you figure out when to go see a chiropractor. You should see a chiropractor if you have any neck pain, including discomfort, stiffness, or limited range of motion. If your injury causes an intense headaches or dizziness you should seek medical care.

Final Thoughts

Any type of head trauma should be taken seriously and involve medical care. If you are suffering from a whiplash injury in Oklahoma City and want to see if chiropractic care might benefit you, call ChiroHer at (405) 213-1072 or schedule an appointment today.