What Muscles Are Affected in a Whiplash Injury? 

Whiplash injuries are commonly misunderstood. No matter if you get rear-ended in traffic or tumble over the handlebars on your bike, whiplash comes in many forms and can become a long-term problem if not treated correctly. Learn what muscles whiplash affects and which treatment options we offer at Optimal Health Chiropractic and Massage.

Which Muscles Are Affected Most by Whiplash?

Neck muscles are most affected by whiplash, but there are many different muscle groups in the neck. Some may sustain more damage in the accident than others. Since our chiropractor has a thorough understanding of the musculoskeletal system, we can examine your neck and find all damaged tissue. Our treatment plan will reduce the pain and inflammation in your neck muscles, easing whiplash symptoms. 

Shoulder muscles are often affected by whiplash too. You may feel pain between shoulder blades or along the shoulder muscles, depending on the accident. 

Finally, back muscles can be affected as well. Even muscles in the low back could tense up as a result of the auto accident. 

If you experience pain in any of these muscles, we can resolve it without the use of medication. 

Chiropractic Treatment in Edmonds, WA for Whiplash 

Depending on the specific injuries you sustained in the accident, we may incorporate these different treatment methods: 

• Chiropractic manipulation - Chiropractic manipulation can relieve the tightness and pain in your neck and help restore mobility. Our adjustments are gentle and will not cause you additional pain. 
• Muscle relaxation or stimulation - We may use chiropractic, massage or other methods to either stimulate or relax the neck, back, and shoulder muscle tissue. Our aim is to warm up muscles for chiropractic adjustments, loosen tightness, and restore mobility. 
• Corrective exercises - As we relieve your pain and inflammation, we will focus on restoring all mobility to your neck muscles. Thus, we may recommend that you perform corrective exercises at home to speed healing and increase mobility. 
• Ergonomic or lifestyle changes - We can recommend ergonomic and lifestyle changes you can make that may support your recovery. We can also recommend nutritional supplements to take as you recover from the auto accident. 

If you have been in an auto accident, it is critical to see our chiropractor right away. The sooner we are able to begin treatment, the faster and more complete your healing will be. Call us today at 425-361-1839 if you need to see a chiropractor for whiplash treatment.