Specialized Physio Treatment For Whiplash
Specialized Physio Treatment For Whiplash
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is an injury to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues of the neck. It’s caused by a sudden and vigorous movement of the head – sideways, backwards or forwards beyond its usual range of movement. With specialized physio treatment for whiplash, you can resume your regular lifestyle sooner.
What causes whiplash?
Whiplash injuries are most commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents, where the head is suddenly jolted backwards and forwards in a whip-like movement. Other causes include:
- A fall where the head is jolted or jarred
- A sudden blow to the head from contact sports
- Being hit on the head by something heavy
Common symptoms of whiplash:
Common symptoms of a whiplash injury are stiffness or soreness in the upper back, headache, loss of neck movement and pain in the neck. Some people may also feel dizzy, experience blurred vision, ringing in the ears and pain when swallowing. Whiplash symptoms may not appear until several days after the injury.
Common questions we often hear from our patients at our Parramatta clinic:
I’VE RECENTLY BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT – DO I HAVE WHIPLASH?
Around one-third of people involved in a car accident will feel no whiplash symptoms, one-third will develop some symptoms that clear up in a few weeks, and one-third will develop severe symptoms which may persist for some time.
If you’ve recently been in a motor vehicle accident and have symptoms including pins and needles or numbness, difficulty speaking or swallowing, gait problems or fainting spells, you should see your GP immediately to discuss your symptoms.
Physiotherapy Treatments for Whiplash:
In the past, people who had suffered whiplash were advised to rest and wear a soft cervical collar to support and protect the neck by keeping it immobile. This is no longer an advisable treatment. More recently, research has shown that you’re more likely to have an earlier and more complete recovery if you stay active and continue to exercise sensibly. Physiotherapy is extremely important component of your whiplash recovery.
How to treat Whiplash at home:
- Applying a warm pack or ice pack to the sore area for 5-10 minutes for the first couple of days after the injury
- Taking pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication
- Using a pillow to support your neck while sitting or lying in bed
- Avoiding sleeping on your stomach
- Taking regular breaks if you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk
- Maintain gentle physical activity
Contact our team of whiplash experts:
If you are unsure about anything, you can call us anytime to have a confidential discussion with our expert Physiotherapists.
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