Snowmobiling in Minnesota is an exciting way to spend the icy winter months. Snowmobiling is a fun activity that gives people the ability to go outside during the cold season and enjoy the snow. However, just like a car collision, snowmobile accidents can cause whiplash as well.

Whiplash is a term used to describe a combination of injuries of the neck caused when the neck is suddenly and/or violently jolted in one direction and then another, creating a whip-like movement. When you crash into a snow bank or strike an object with your snowmobile, your neck can be violently knocked out of place and then snapped back. With the added weight of a helmet there is an enormous amount of stress on your neck which can lead to serious complications.

Whiplash Symptoms

The most common symptoms of whiplash are pain and stiffness in the neck. These symptoms are typically located in the areas that have been affected by whiplash. For example, during a snowmobile accident, the head is first lifted up from the upper-cervical spine. This creates a sprain/strain in the area just below the skull, where symptoms generally pop up. Symptoms may also be located in the front and back of the neck. Attempting to turn the head will typically make the pain worse.

Headaches are also a very common symptom related to whiplash injuries after a snowmobile accident. These headaches may only affect one side of your head, or can be felt on both sides. In addition, the pain and stiffness may extend down into the shoulders and arms, upper back, and even the upper chest.

Another important and interesting aspect of whiplash is that the signs and symptoms often do not occur until 2 or 3 days after the injury. Sometimes, people do not experience any symptoms for weeks after their snowmobile accident.

Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care has been proven to be one of the most beneficial treatment options for people suffering from whiplash after a snowmobile accident. Chiropractic care manipulates the spine to return it to its proper alignment. When the spine is properly aligned, the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck can heal correctly. Combined with exercises, massage therapy, and physical therapy, patients see results faster than they often do with surgery and medications.

Chiropractic care is very important in the treatment of whiplash injuries whether they seem relatively minor or more severe.

If you have whiplash after your snowmobile accident and would like to set up an appointment for an evaluation or chiropractic treatment, call Nokomis Chiropractic and Wellnessat 612 822 0149-- located in South Minneapolis today.