Home Blog At The Local Publix Near Me A Shopper Asked Me, Dr. Timothy Harcourt Of Coast Chiropractic Centers, "How Can Whiplash Affect Sense of Position and Balance"?

At The Local Publix Near Me A Shopper Asked Me, Dr. Timothy Harcourt Of Coast Chiropractic Centers, "How Can Whiplash Affect Sense of Position and Balance"?

Nov 13, 2021 -- Posted by : Dr.Harcourt

Although whiplash injuries are quite common, research is only beginning to describe the diverse symptoms that can develop when the neck has experienced trauma. Even a minor whiplash injury, such as may occur while playing sports, can have a significant impact on the delicate structures of the neck.

Position sense or balance is how we keep upright and move through space. When it is disturbed, we may feel unsettled, dizzy or even get nauseous. Many studies have shown that when the spine is injured, a person’s balance can be affected. How is this so? Balance is maintained by a complex interaction between your inner ear, your eyes, and the nerves in your neck (Sports Med 2008;38:101,Armstrong. et al.). When the neck is injured, you may use your eyes more to correct for any position sense or balance deficits, which may result in dizziness.  About 1/3 of older persons suffer from dizziness, and whiplash or other neck traumas may represent a significant reason why.

A good test to see if your balance is impaired is as follows: Can you stand on one leg for fifteen seconds? Is it equally easy to do this on the other leg or is it easier to maintain your balance on one leg? Can you stand on one leg with your eyes closed? Obviously, you should try this very carefully. You may want to do this with a friend nearby so you do not fall. Do you immediately lean and have to put your other foot down? If you cannot stay upright, it may be sign that your position sense has been affected by a spinal problem.

Chiropractic care can improve the posture and mobility of the neck. This may have an impact on balance because joint dysfunction in the neck can send altered nerve signals to the brain centers that coordinate position with your eyes and ears. Although there is limited research in this area, most doctors and therapists recognize the importance of introducing movements early-on when a balance problem stems from a neck injury.

So, if you have had a car accident in Fort Myers and you have neck pain, dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance and type in pain management near me, whiplash, or even car accident lawyer you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up. 

You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my neck or back.

Also, if you feel arm or leg pain it may indicate things are getting worse and” may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your neck and/or back. Shoulder pain is very common with whiplash and could require conservative treatment right away to avoid injections or worse yet, surgery.  A foggy brain may indicate a mild traumatic brain injury.  Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional. 

Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and we will submit the bills to your auto carrier for payment.

Share:

Most Recent Posts

Relieve Shoulder Pain with these Treatment Options

The shoulder is not just one joint but rather four: the collar…

Home Exercises to Treat Carpal Tunnel

Individuals with jobs or hobbies that involve fast, repetitive…

Wondrous Do It Yourself Exercises for Neck and Upper Back Pain

In normal posture, the center of the shoulder joints should be…

Strengthening your Back with Exercises

Several studies have found that a treatment approach that combines…

Relieve Knee Pain with 10 amazing Exercises

Osteoarthritis is a common chronic joint condition that affects…