Whiplash Common Causes and Symptoms...Nerang.

Whiplash Common Causes and Symptoms

Also, some  Home care below.

Whiplash is a common neck injury. It is frequently associated with Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA) however, it can also occur with sport injuries, & also with falls that have sudden impacts to the head and neck region.

What is whiplash?

As suggested previously, they come from rapid and violent injuries to the neck region. Over the years, I have treated many whiplash survivors.

Below is a standard  grading used for whiplash.

Grade 1. Small sprains and strains that usually last a week or so.

 Grade 2. Neck symptoms with more severe muscle strains, they usually include restricted movement of the neck with tenderness in specific neck regions.

Grade 3. Neck symptoms with nerve pains. The pain can be sharp or a dull ache. Often, the neck is still very difficult to move without pain.

Grade 4. Severe neck pain often requires medication, and frequently they have ligament tears, fractures, and dislocations.

The research shows that 20% to 40% of whiplash patients develop into chronic long term patients.

Developing a plan

It is important to establish what grade you present with when you visit a practitioner. Grade 2 & 3 will respond well with conservative care. Grade 4 patients have usually had hospital care somewhere, and while we can help with pain management, which is important, it can be a slow process on the path to recovery.

Path To Recovery.

The research shows that developing an exercise routine is effective in treating whiplash.

Massage (physical therapy) with isometric exercises, spinal releases(stretches), and adjustments/manipulation has helped in reducing recovery time.

I have found Laser Light Therapy has often assisted with pain management, & pain management is an important part of recovery! Laser is very effective.

Home Care Help

Obviously, a soft Cervical Collar from a chemist is helpful. Use it when the neck aches, which is often towards the end of a day,when you are weary. Also use it at night. When you are sleeping, neck support is important.

Hot and cold packs will also help. Cold packs reduce inflammation,  use no more than 5 minutes. Heat packs relax muscles, they are very comforting but the effect is short lived. Hot showers are great, particularly at 2-3 am when you 'wale' in pain.

Creams. There are many of them. The Dencorub, Deep Heat are salicylic acid base can only be used 2-3 times a day, they burn. A gently cream that I found soothing is called 'Perskindol' from any chemist it can be used 4-5 times a day.

What Can I Expect?

Following whiplash injuries, some discomfort is fairly normal, with stiffness and reduced movement. Your treatment plan is based on your individual symptoms and examination findings.

At Back Care Gold Coast Nerang, we aim to understand your condition and develop an appropriate plan to help you on your way to recovery to normal activities.

So, if you have been experiencing headaches, neck pain, or poor neck movement, an assessment could help with the next step to a better you.

Back Care Gold Coast. Nerang

Dr Jeff Threlfo

Helping you move more comfortably & getting back to the things you enjoy.