Whiplash injuries occur when the head moves in a back and fro motion with great force. In the case of rear-end car accidents, the soft tissues in the neck extend beyond their normal range of motion causing whiplash.
You are most likely to feel excruciating pain and difficulty in movement in the neck area. With the right exercises, it is possible to recover within three months. In the case of more severe whiplash injuries, however, the recovery process may take longer.
Car accidents are the most common cause of whiplash injuries.
So, let’s check out what exactly happens to the neck in whiplash.
This happens in rear-end car collisions. The biomechanics may vary if the causes of whiplash are different.
Whiplash injuries occur when the head is thrown backward and forward forcefully. Some common causes of whiplash are:
You should consult with a physiotherapist as soon as possible after the car accident. The recovery is easier when you start the treatments at the right time.
Physiotherapy along with other treatments works great when it comes to treating whiplash injuries. In whiplash, the soft tissues in your neck are injured. The physiotherapist applies certain exercises and techniques to heal those affected tissues. They guide you to restore optimal mobility and function.
Passive treatments do not need you to participate actively. Most physiotherapists start the whiplash treatment with passive treatments such as:
The physiotherapist guides you through a wide series of exercises to improve your strength and range of motion. They assess your medical history to prepare an effective exercise program specific to your condition.
The physiotherapist may also guide you through posture correction and other significant lifestyle changes. You can return to an active lifestyle gradually after some physiotherapy sessions.
Whiplash is common and treatable. It may cause you a lot of pain but don’t panic. Physiotherapy exercises can relieve the pain and release the pressure off the soft tissues in the neck. Whether the symptoms are visible or not, make sure to consult with a physiotherapist if you have been in a car accident.