Neck pain is the most common complaint of whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) and is reported in the vast majority of auto injury patients. Neck injuries suffered in a vehicle collision typically result from rapid hyperextension and hyperflexion which can occur during a collision at virtually any speed. These sudden movements overload the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the neck and back, which leads to strains and sprains of those structures.
The pain may originate from the muscles, vertebrae, joints, or discs in the neck and back. Lack of treatment for these injuries may result in chronic pain due to improper healing, prolonged inflammation, and decreased joint mobility, possibly leading to future degeneration. It has been found that as many as 55% of people involved in a car accident experience chronic neck pain. Receiving auto accident chiropractic care and back adjustments can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term pain.