A whiplash injury involves the neck rapidly moving backwards and forwards past its normal range of motion. Usually the injury is caused by a rear end or front end road traffic accident, but can also be caused by a fall or sports injury. The injury damages the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the neck with the longus coli, sternocleidomastoid and levator scapulae muscles the most commonly affected. In more severe incidences joint sprains, bone fractures and nerve injury may occur.
Whiplash symptoms
The symptoms of whiplash usually develop 24-48 hours following injury and include:
- Pain and stiffness (possibly severe) in the neck and shoulders
- Muscle spasm
- Reduced flexibility of neck
- Headache
- Swelling
In a more serious accident the following symptoms may occur. If experienced immediate medical attention is required.
- Unconsciousness
- Loss of memory
- Arm pain
- Pain located directly on the spine
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Pins and needles, numbness, weakness in the arms or and legs
Whiplash self help
Medical assessment is required before undertaking the following advice. Once you have received an all clear from medical staff you may:
- Rest with avoidance of any strenuous activity
- Gentle movement and stretching of the neck. Stretching should not cause pain and should be done as soon as possible following injury
- Anti-inflammatory medication (speak to your doctor or pharmacist about a suitable product)
Whiplash physical therapy
- Stretching of muscles and osteopathic articulation of joints to restore normal flexibility
- Massage to alleviate muscle tension and spasm (important to restore normal circulation to muscles)
- Improvement of posture to lessen strain on neck
