whiplash

whiplash

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck, caused by a sudden jerking or ‘whipping’ movement that stretches muscles and ligaments beyond their normal range of motion1 and may include joint or disc injury.2  As well as neck pain, the symptoms of whiplash may also include, headaches, dizziness, back or shoulder pain, and trouble sleeping.2

One common cause of whiplash is an automobile accident where a car is struck from behind by another car. The seat belt keeps the person’s body from going forward, but the head snaps forward, then quickly backward, stretching ligaments and muscles in the neck. Whiplash can also be caused by sports injuries, amusement park rides, such as roller coasters that include a sudden change in direction, and being punched or shaken.1

Treatment for whiplash

Whiplash can occur in accidents at 5mph or less. Most rear-end car accidents happen at speeds of 6-12mph.

Doctors sometimes recommend prescription muscle relaxers, heat application to relieve muscle tension  or a neck collar to limit movement that increases pain.2

They may also suggest a range of exercises that build upon flexibility and mobility  and a programme of ‘physical therapy’ that builds core strength and frequently-used muscles.

For minor neck pain due to whiplash, it may help to try over-the-counter pain relievers.1,2

Try to avoid aggravating the sore muscles and ligaments for at least two to three weeks.1 Don’t lift or carry heavy objects, participate in sports or vigorous exercise, or sit in the same position for long periods of time.1 Do try to stay active by walking and wherever possible continuing as normal.1

Whiplash can be more than just a temporary pain in the neck

Besides neck pain and stiffness, whiplash may also bring about soreness in  the head, chest, arms, and shoulders. Whiplash pain may lessen, and then come back again days or weeks later. Some patients say that this happens repeatedly for months or even years.

It’s a good idea to keep your healthcare professional informed if the level of pain changes or keeps returning.

Also call your healthcare professional if:

  • The neck pain is severe
  • Pain spreads to arms, shoulders, or chest
  • There is weakness, numbness or tingling in arms or legs
  • Bowel or bladder problems occur.

References

  1. Whiplash. Medline Plus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000025.htm
  2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Whiplash Information. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/whiplash/whiplash.htm. Accessed September 2010.  
  3. Panjabi MM, Grauer JN (1997): “Whiplash produces a S-shape curvature of the neck with hyperextension at lower levels. ” Spine 22 (21): 2489-94.
  4. Panjabi MM, Cholewicki J, Nibu K, Grauer JN, Babat LB, Dvorak J, Bar HF (1998-12-01): “[Biomechanics of whiplash injury].” Orthopade 1998 Dec; 27(12): 813-9.
  5. Koji Kaneoka, Koshiro Ono, Satoshi Inami and Koichiro Hayashi (99-04-15). “Motion analysis of cervical vertebrae during whiplash loading.” Spine 24(8): 763-770