I was recently in an accident where my car was rear-ended. Since then I have had neck pain and can't rotate my head as before. Can acupuncture help?

A whiplash injury is caused by a rapid flexion of the neck followed by rapid extension, or vice versa, causing tissue damage. Usually an acute sprain of the spinal ligaments occurs. Subsequently, you can experience pain that is worse with movement, stiffness and decreased range of motion.

There is a growing body of clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of acupuncture for pain relief. Researcher Dr. Bruce Pomeranz, a neuro-physiologist, states that acupuncture stimulates the release of the body's own natural painkillers, endorphins. This is an especially good option for people who cannot, or prefer not to, take medication. See an acupuncturist soon after the injury to reduce your recovery/treatment time.

Acupuncture is being increasingly recommended by doctors for recovery from trauma and pain relief. It can successfully treat sciatica; headaches; sports injuries; bursitis; tendinitis; arthritis; back/disc/muscle pain; neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, leg and foot pain.

About the Author:

Jane McKee, MAcOM, L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist in Tigard, Oregon. 

To learn more about Jane McKee or the Meridian Acupuncture Clinic, please visit www.meridianacupuncture.com