1^st Aid forWhiplash

"Doc, what should I do...

I just got into a Fender-Bender?"   

I always tell people that the most important thing to do is prevent the long term problems that can occur after neck strain/sprain injuries from a car accident (often called "whiplash"). Just because you aren't in a lot of pain, don't take it lightly.

1. Get yourself checked out by a good manual therapy Physician...a Chiropractor, an Osteopath, or a "hands-on" physiatrist (MD).  There can be subtle problems found by a thorough physical examination...the sooner the better.
2. Immediately start with gentle nerve release stretches.  The Australian government did some research on what people should do....and the #1 thing with the best long-term outcome was the following:
• Sitting straight with good posture, SLOWLY turn your head to the right as far as it will go comfortably, and return to midline.  Repeat ten times to the right. 
• Now do the same to the left side, ten times as well.
• Repeat every few hours for the first few days, then 3 times a day for the next week.
3. Be positive and expect the best:  every structure in the human body can heal and recover from injury.  True, some brain damage is permanent, and if your accident was that severe, this blog is not the right one for you.  Having a positive mind-set will make a difference in the outcome of your recovery.  I work diligently to help my patients find the good in their "bad experience."
4. Keep a written log or journal of how you feel and what symptoms you have.  This will help with remembering it all when it is time to talk to the doctor and the insurance company.
5. Always take brain symptoms seriously.  If you are dizzy, nauseous, confused, forgetful, irritable, sleeping poorly, or having strange symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor!  Many will improve over time without care, but it is best to report them to a professional.

Douglas Kennedy|Boulder Chiropractor | Best Boulder Chiropractor