Whiplash Symptoms and Treatments
Whiplash, also referred to as neck sprain, is a soft tissue injury to the neck. Whiplash can cause pain and stiffness and can be extremely uncomfortable.
Causes of Whiplash
Whiplash is caused by a sudden movement of the neck where the head goes forward and back at high speed. In a lot of cases, it can be as a result of being hit or jolted from behind, like getting rear ended in a car. Car or motorbike accidents can involve sudden stopping which can make your head and neck move suddenly and violently. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments may be put under pressure which can cause strain.
Symptoms
Whiplash can also affect other areas of the body, not just your neck, symptoms may include:
Neck pain and stiffness
Dizziness
Difficulty sleeping & fatigue
Pain in the shoulder or between the shoulder blades
Headaches
Pain in the lower back
Numbness or pain in the arm or hand
Problems concentrating due to pain in the neck and head
Treatment
Here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, we have extensive experience dealing with all sorts of neck pain including with whiplash. Your chartered physiotherapist can work with you to help overcome the symptoms of a sudden impact or whiplash. There is a range of treatments that can ease pain and aid normal function, including:
Gentle neck exercises
This can help deal with the mobility in the area and will speed up recovery. Neck braces are generally no longer recommended for whiplash as early recovery is aided by getting movement back as soon as possible. If needed your doctor may prescribe pain medication. Talk to your physiotherapist if you are experiencing pain and they can work with you to find the best solution to aid in your recovery.
Massage
Massage can be vital in the treatment of whiplash. This can ease the strain on muscles and ligaments and can help the stiffness associated with the condition.
Mobilisation
Mobilisation of the neck joints can help in getting movement back into the neck, back, and shoulders. This can also ease the pain in the arm and hands.
Pilates
As you recover, it is vital to keep relaxed while improving mobility. Many patients find that physio-led Pilates can help to rebuild strength and posture following the pain of whiplash and allow a gentle progression back to exercise.
Whatever your symptoms, the chartered physiotherapists at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic will be able to work closely with you to help you in your recovery.
Physiotherapy
We specialise in the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions. If you are suffering with any health aliments that you feel we could help you with, get in touch today. We provide treatment for a wide age range from 9 years to 90 years old.