Whiplash is a form of neck strain caused by the sudden hyperextension or hyperflexion (forward or backward movement) of the neck, usually caused by an accident in a motor vehicle. The symptoms often begin sometime after the accident, so you won’t always know that it’s present immediately after. The damage can be treated, because it is usually only as severe as the soft tissue surrounding the neck (ligaments, muscles and discs).
Diagnosis and Symptoms
Your doctor will likely diagnosis whiplash based on your testimony, where and how you are experiencing pain or difficulty moving the neck. An array of symptoms can be noted prior to seeing your doctor such as dizziness, headaches, stiffness, numbness in the arm or hand, pain in the lower back or shoulder blades, sleep disturbance and mental fog. Because it’s likely you have whiplash from an accident you can pin point origination and it’s only damage to the soft tissue, it’s unlikely you’ll have an X-Ray because damaged caused by whiplash does not show. CT scans or MRI could reveal more, but is not often necessary.
Treatment Recommended
It’s crucial to ice the site for the first 24 hours to reduce inflammation and encourage healing. Gentle physical therapy type exercises could be employed to improve range of motion and maintain strength. Massage can also relieve stiffness, swelling, improve circulation and reduce pain. Pain management is going to be an element of concern during the process, using over the counter medication to manage pain and reduce swelling is okay. Implementing rest as part of the regimen is also recommended. It’s easier to rest at times when you use a cervical collar or support brace that relieves all the pressure of your head from the neck for a period of time. Balanced use and self-care are essential to healing your whiplash.
Length of Treatment
You could feel such relief within days or weeks, but many don’t fully recover for several months so it’s important to be gentle with yourself and keep some, if not all treatment going into the weeks and months following your complete pain relief. You only get one neck! Take good care of it and other parts of your back and spine now that you’ve experienced an injury. Visit your doctor with any pain that persists beyond a week or with any hesitation and get proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation.