How to Avoid Whiplash – And Treat It When It Does Happen

Automobile whiplash injuries are all too common. And they can be a lifelong problem. But that’s not all.

The single most common cause of fibromyalgia is automobile-related whiplash injuries.

So, is there a way to minimize the risk? Maybe it has something to do with the position of the head during the impact?

The authors of a recent study point out that previous studies that have looked at the effect of whiplash injuries on the cervical spine involve people seated with their back against the seatback and their head against the headrest.

But who drives that way? The answer is no one.

So, using a detailed human cervical spine model they analyzed if the effects of a whiplash injury would be more or less if the body was leaning forward 10 degrees from the seatback and/or the head positioned 20 degrees away from the headrest at the time of the collision. According to the authors, this is a common driving position.

Here’s what they found:

Both of these habits make things worse. Specifically, leaning forward increases the risk of damaging the capsular ligaments that hold the cervical spine together. And having both the body and head in a forward position at the same time results in a greater risk of severe injury.

Their conclusion was that the seat back and headrest should be adjusted so the head is no greater than one-to-two inches from the headrest. I think this is good advice, especially given that rear-end collisions are so common. But of course, there are never any guarantees.

So, just remember this. If you have sustained a whiplash injury, and you’re not recovering with the usual chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, physical therapy treatments, see a doctor trained in Prolozone® therapy. Prolozone therapy combines oxygen and ozone with vitamins, nutrients, and minerals to take away pain and stimulate healing. It’s especially effective for neck injuries. You can find doctors trained in Prolozone at www.aaot.us.