Whiplash injuries are caused by rapid backward and forward bending of the head and neck in a whip-like fashion.

When the head and neck are caused to move in this fashion the structures within the neck -- such as bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles -- may be damaged. Also the normal curve of the neck and upper back may be altered due to movement of the aforementioned structures of the neck.

The neck is particularly vulnerable because of its ability to move in many directions. Usually this occurs during a rear-end automobile collision, but can also occur during sporting events, such as boxing, snowboarding and football to name a few. In some cases pain, stiffness, and swelling may begin immediately or within a few hours of the incident. In others, symptoms may take several days, weeks or months to begin.

In instances of motor vehicle collisions, the severity of the injury depends upon force, headrest position, use or non-use of the seat belt, and whether or not the head was turned. Also physical mass may play a factor, as women may be more severely injured than men simply due to usually having a smaller, lighter frame and musculature.

If the headrest is positioned below the top of the head it may act like a fulcrum for the head to bend over, thus causing greater injury.

A very common misconception is that it is better to be relaxed than to tense for an impending force. This is untrue. When in a relaxed state, our nervous system cannot activate our muscles quickly enough to slow the head's acceleration, which will increase the severity of the injury. Ideally if a crash is coming, you will be best served to brace for impact and look straight ahead, as a turned head will also increase the magnitude of injury.

Whiplash victims may have varying symptoms, including pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, burning or tingling, hoarseness and difficulty swallowing. Shoulder pain, upper back pain and dizziness may occur. Whiplash sufferers may have balance problems or dizziness because the nerve receptors in the neck that sense our position in space can be damaged along with the neck joints.

The good news is never before have there been more viable options for care. Most patients are encouraged to remain as active as possible, and cervical collars are seldom used. Spinal manipulation and physical rehabilitation exercises are very common and effective courses of care. Medication may be prescribed for inflammation and pain control and in very rare cases surgery may be warranted.

If you experience an automobile collision or sports accident it is advisable to consult with your health care practitioner right away, even if you have little or no pain initially. It is not uncommon for symptoms to develop later than you may expect. Studies have shown that patients who did not seek appropriate care for whiplash injuries may have poor long-term outcomes.

English translation: get help or you may have problems down the road.

Dr. Nick Smith is a chiropractor at Active Life Chiropractic Center in Helena and is Montana's only certified Biomechanics of Posture practitioner. Rech him at 443-3965 or doctornick73@hotmail.com.