Whiplash Injuries

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. 

What Happens in Whiplash Injuries? 

Car accidents are the most common cause of whiplash injuries. 

So, let’s check out what exactly happens to the neck in whiplash. 

• Let’s say your car got hit from behind. 
• So, the seat is pushed against the back. 
• Your torso movies forward but the head takes time. 
• Hence, the cervical spine is misaligned. 
• The neck extends backward rapidly causing injury at the front of the neck. 
• The head whips forward while the neck flexes rapidly hurting the soft tissues in the neck. 

This happens in rear-end car collisions. The biomechanics may vary if the causes of whiplash are different. 

What are the other Causes of Whiplash?

Whiplash injuries occur when the head is thrown backward and forward forcefully. Some common causes of whiplash are: 

• Car accidents 
• Physical assault 
• Sports that involve contact 

What are the Symptoms of Whiplash Injuries?

• Stiffness and pain in the neck 
• Dizziness 
• Tiredness 
• Reduced range of motion in the neck 
• Tingling in arms 
• Headaches 
• Muscle tenderness in shoulders, arms or upper back 
• Memory issues 
• Problems in concentrating 
• Blurred vision 

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. 

Impacts of Physiotherapy on Whiplash Injuries

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 physiotherapy treatments for whiplash 

Passive treatments do not need you to participate actively. Most physiotherapists start the whiplash treatment with passive treatments such as: 

• Hot and cold compression 
• Deep tissue massage 
• Ultrasound 

Active physiotherapy treatments for whiplash 

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. 

Final Thoughts, 

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.