Whiplash most commonly results from motor vehicle accidents. Lots of people across the globe have experienced whiplash. Whiplash affects the neck following a rapid backward and forward (or sideways) movement of the head and neck.
The term whiplash injury has been in use as far back as 1928 to describe the acute trauma to the soft tissues and bony structures of the neck area. The term whiplash is also used to describe a more severe and chronic condition.
When left untreated whiplash can dominate a person’s life causing them lost productivity at work and home with ongoing chronic symptoms.
What causes Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs most commonly to the neck following a rapid backward and forward (or sideways) movement of the head and neck. This is commonly described in a traumatic event such as a car accident or a sporting injury such as football or surfing.
The acute trauma of whiplash causes local soft tissue inflammation. If this inflammation is left untreated and normal range of movement and strength of the neck are not restored, chronic pain symptoms can set in.
The Major Symptoms Of Whiplash
There are many common symptoms of the condition. Some of these symptoms include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Shoulder pain and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Jaw pain
- Arm pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Visual disturbances
- Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
In more chronic cases of whiplash the following symptoms may be present as well:
- Frustration
- Anger
- Depression
- Drug dependency
- Stress
- Post-traumatic stress syndrome
- Insomnia
How is the condition diagnosed?
A thorough assessment by a medical doctor or physiotherapist in the hospital emergency room or in the private rooms is the best diagnosis. Whiplash is diagnosed by a clinical examination. X-Ray or MRI is not always required for an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor or physiotherapist will know whether radiology is appropriate in your case or not.
Treatments for Whiplash
Treatments for whiplash depend on the individual presentation. Treatment may include:
- medications
- neck collar or brace
- taping
- education
- pain management strategies
- soft tissue therapy
- dry needling
- manual therapy
- rehab exercises
- strength and conditioning exercises
- self-management strategies
Early intervention with whiplash correlates to better outcomes for the whiplash client.
Whiplash affects many people around the globe and there are many opinions on what to do for whiplash. The most sensible approach is to see a qualified doctor or physiotherapist.
The above article provides information on the diagnosis and treatment of whiplash.
Final thoughts about Whiplash
Whiplash is a common condition that can be caused by car accidents, falls, and other impact to the head or neck. The major symptoms of whiplash are pain and stiffness in the neck area, but the condition can also cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
If you think you may have whiplash it’s important to see a doctor or physiotherapist for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. Whiplash is treated with a combination of medication, rest, physical therapy, and massage. Have you ever had whiplash? What treatments worked best for you?
