Statistics show that most of us will have at least one
“fender bender” car accident in our lives.
Did you know that such low-speed collisions can still cause problems with your neck and back? Recall way back in high school science class that force = mass x acceleration. Since cars have a lot of mass, even at a low acceleration they generate a lot of force that gets absorbed by yourbody.
Whiplash occurs when the head is violently thrust forward
and backwards past the neck’s normal, safe range of motion.
It happens very quickly. In the process, ligament and
muscle fibers sustain microtears. The bones that make up
the neck can also be knocked out of proper relative position,
creating problems in the future. Pain and stiffness peak
72 hours post-accident, as swelling occurs very slowly.
If you’ve been in such an accident, and you feel that you’ve
been hurt, first get checked at an emergency room. The
doctor will rule out more grave injuries like fractures, cord
damage and hematomas (blood pooling in the brain). You may
get some pain meds and instructions to ice your injury.
Once you’re cleared, make an appointment to see me. If not
treated properly, some cases of whiplash can lead to chronic,
recurring problems like reduced neck mobility. It’s important
to keep your neck moving somewhat during the days following
the accident to prevent scar tissue build-up.
But most of all, realize that driving is one of the most
dangerous things we do in a 24 hour day, so be careful out
there.
Till next time,
Dan Perez, DC
(415) 627-907
