🔸A sudden acceleration/deceleration force to the body causing forceful forwards, backwards or sideways motion resulting in pain and other symptoms is called Whiplash Injury.
🔸Injuries- Rear end collision , Road traffic incident, fall from a height , work injuries etc
🔸Improvement is seen within 6-12 weeks for 40 % of population
🔸Full recovery is estimated for 50% of population by one year.
🔸Sudden movement causes a shock in neuromuscular system leading to following
SYMPTOMS
Neck pain - most common
Headache - associated with neck pain
Shoulder/arm pain
Muscle spasms
Pins and needles ( nerve symptoms )
Fatigue/tiredness
Poor memory
Nausea/feeling sick/vomiting
Jaw pain
Loss of hearing function
Tinnitus ( ringing in ears)
DIAGNOSIS
🔸Depending on nature of injury, a thorough assessment by healthcare professional is advised to rule out serious injury
🔸X-ray might be advised if fracture is suspected, soft collar might be suggested in some cases
MANAGEMENT
Education- Patient education is vital in Whiplash
Physiotherapy- Exercises, manual therapy, functional rehab , reassurance, self management advice.
Medications- Oral over the counter medications or stronger pain medications can be suggested
Psychotherapy- CBT, talking therapies, etc can be offered to cope with stress, anxiety or post traumatic stress.
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