What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a type of neck sprain caused by a sudden, forceful motion of the head and neck—most often from a rear-end car accident but also from falls, sports collisions, or workplace injuries. This abrupt movement overstretches the ligaments and soft tissues that stabilize the cervical spine, resulting in inflammation, muscle spasm, and a reduced range of motion.1,2
Common Causes of Whiplash
- Car accidents and auto accident injuries – Rear-end collisions are the leading cause of whiplash.
- Sports injuries – Contact sports or high-impact activities can create similar back-and-forth movement.
- Workplace injuries – Falls or sudden jolts on the job can strain neck ligaments.
- Physical assaults or other traumatic events – Any impact that forces the head to snap backward and forward.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash symptoms can appear within hours or days after an accident injury. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain, stiffness, and tenderness
- Limited range of motion or difficulty turning the head
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
- Shoulder, upper back, or arm pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
- Blurred vision, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances3
If you experience worsening neck pain, weakness, or signs of traumatic brain injury—such as confusion or severe headaches—seek medical attention promptly.
Diagnosing Whiplash
Our DFW specialists begin with a thorough medical history and physical exam to evaluate neck injury severity and whiplash pain patterns. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to rule out fractures, dislocations, or serious injuries.
Whiplash Treatment Options
At DFW Spine & Pain Institute, we create a customized treatment plan designed for effective pain relief and restored mobility:
Conservative & Non-Surgical Care
- Physical therapy to improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and restore range of motion.
- Chiropractic care and chiropractic adjustments to ease joint restrictions and support spinal alignment.
- Medication management with anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and swelling.
- Steroid injections or nerve blocks to calm inflamed nerves and relieve neck and back pain.
- Pain mapping to identify precise pain sources for targeted therapy.
Advanced Interventional Therapies
- Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy – A minimally invasive procedure using radiofrequency energy to disrupt pain signals from lumbar facet joints.
- Rhizotomy – A targeted treatment that disables pain-transmitting nerve roots, used for various chronic pain conditions.
- Ketamine infusion therapy to help manage chronic pain that does not respond to standard treatments.
- Curonix Freedom® Peripheral Neuromodulation System for non-invasive nerve stimulation and lasting relief.
- Stem cell or regenerative medicine options (when appropriate) to support natural tissue repair.
These treatments are often combined for maximum benefit, with ongoing monitoring to adapt the plan as you heal.
When to Seek Care
Seek professional whiplash treatment if you notice persistent neck pain, worsening headaches, or neurological symptoms after a car accident or any sudden neck injury. Early evaluation helps prevent chronic pain and long-term complications.
FAQs About Whiplash
How long does whiplash last?
Mild cases improve within a few weeks, but untreated injuries can lead to chronic pain lasting months or longer.
Can whiplash cause back pain?
Yes. Strained muscles and ligaments can extend discomfort into the upper back and shoulders.
Do I need chiropractic care or physical therapy?
Many patients benefit from both. Our team can recommend the best combination to restore mobility and reduce pain.
Is whiplash serious?
While most cases are mild, serious injuries such as fractures or traumatic brain injury can occur. Prompt evaluation ensures appropriate treatment.
Get Whiplash Pain Relief in Texas
If you’re experiencing whiplash symptoms after an auto accident, sports injury, or workplace incident, the specialists at DFW Spine & Pain Institute can help. We serve patients across Dallas-Fort Worth and surrounding Texas communities with advanced pain management and personalized treatment options.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your path toward lasting pain relief and restored function.
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Get a FREE MRI Review at DFW Spine & Pain Institute
If you have had an MRI but you are still suffering from pain, our specialists offer free MRI reviews. We offer a variety of treatment options at conveniently located offices in Colleyville, Dallas, Frisco, and Rockwall, Texas. Contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation.
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