Neck Pain or Headaches after a Car Accident? You Might Have Whiplash!

Whiplash is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip. It mainly occurs during a rear-end auto accident, this injury can also be sustained through physical abuse, sports or other trauma.

Common signs and symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.

 Most people with whiplash get better within a few weeks by following a treatment plan that includes pain medication and Physical therapy in the form of exercise, soft tissue manipulation, ergonomics education as well as modalities. However, some people have chronic neck pain and other long-lasting complications.

Whiplash may be called a neck sprain or strain, but these terms also include other types of neck injuries.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of whiplash usually about 24 hours of the injury and may include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Worsening of pain with neck movement
• Loss of range of motion in the neck
• Headaches
• Tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back or arms
• Tingling or numbness in the arms
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

How can I manage my symptoms?

-Your Doctor could prescribe Pain medications (over-the-counter or prescription) as well as some muscle relaxers

-A cervical collar may be used for the first few days, but use should be limited to the time period prescribed

-Cold packs or ice can be applied to the neck to minimize swelling and pain. Apply ice/cold to the neck area for 7-10 mins

-Limit motion of the head and neck until pain and muscle tightness is gone.

-Limit strenuous activities such as sports or heavy lifting.

-Physical therapy – A physical therapist will create an individualized plan to help manage your symptoms and improve your functional abilities. These will be in the form of range of motion exercises, muscle strengthening, soft tissue mobilization as well as modalities may be prescribed.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whiplash/symptoms-causes/syc-20378921

https://www.emedicinehealth.com/whiplash/article_em.htm#whiplash_treatment

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.