#6 Minute Read.
Throughout the recent years there have been an increasing amount of whiplash injuries. You hear about whiplash injuries often, most commonly in the context of a road traffic accident. However the question remains, what is a whiplash? Here you will find what a whiplash is, the symptoms and what the possible treatment interventions are.
What is Whiplash?
First thing first, what is a whiplash? In the simplest form, whiplash is the term given for trauma to the neck, which can be caused due to a road traffic accident, impact in sports or aggressive rides (other causes include abuse). As stated, whiplash is very typical within car accidents, and this is due to the muscles being unable to handle the force which occurs too fast for the muscles to respond. An acceleration-deceleration-acceleration movement can result in tears in the muscles around the neck.
Similarly, to the neck moving forward-backwards-forwards, the brain can follow the same pattern, which may cause headaches. Majority of people suffer from the following symptoms: stiffness, pain, irritation, loss of movement.
Although, these symptoms are frustrating and limiting, with the correct therapeutic input symptoms usually resolve within an average of 3 months. What are your treatment options?
- Physiotherapy = Physiotherapist will assess the severity of whiplash and then the appropriate treatment plan. This will be a combination of accessory mobilisations, massage, exercise therapy, and general advice/education.
– Here are some general advice that you can use:
- Heat or ice depending on the symptoms you are experiencing and the duration of the injury. Heat can help the muscles relax and reduce stiffness. Ice can help reduce pain and swelling that may be present.
- Exercises which include the normal neck range of motion such as, chin to chest, looking up towards the roof, looking over each shoulder and bringing the ears towards the shoulder. This can increase synovial fluid, encourage correct motion and passively stretch the muscles.
Overall, whiplash is an injury that can happen to anyone (nevertheless, is more frequent amongst women). There are multiple treatment options that are available and the best solution is to visit a registered professional who can manage and treat your condition.
If you are suffering from whiplash or any other issues, feel free to contact us by email, phone, contact form or social medias.
Creating the path to success,
M.Zia
~ Founder & Director, Chartered Physiotherapist, MSc Psychology Student, Tedx Public Speaker, Mentor, National Award Winner ~
