WHIPLASH

If you believe you have experienced Whiplash in the Lone Star State and need an Orthopedic Spine Specialist, CONTACT US today!

What Is Whiplash?

The term Whiplash refers to a neck injury caused by a rapid, back-and-forth movement in the neck, similar to cracking a whip.

Rear-end car accidents cause the highest number of whiplash cases annually, but whiplash may also result from high-impact sporting accidents, physical strikes to the head, and other traumas, such as falling from a height. Physicians may also call Whiplash a neck sprain or strain, terms which also include other forms of neck injuries.

Symptoms Of Whiplash

The rapid back-and-forth movement of the head and neck in a whiplash injury can cause damage to the soft tissues, muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. The severity of whiplash can vary, ranging from mild to severe, and the symptoms may not always be immediately apparent.

Common symptoms of whiplash include:

1. Neck Pain and Stiffness: The most prevalent symptom is pain and stiffness in the neck. The pain may be localized or spread to the shoulders, upper back, or arms. The stiffness may make it challenging to move the neck or turn the head.
2. Headaches: Headaches, often originating from the base of the skull, are a common symptom of whiplash. These headaches can be dull or throbbing and may radiate to the forehead or temples.
3. Reduced Range of Motion: Whiplash can restrict the normal range of motion of the neck, making it difficult to tilt the head backward, forward, or sideways.
4. Neck Tenderness: The neck may be tender to the touch or palpation. The affected areas might feel sore or sensitive.
5. Muscle Spasms: Whiplash injuries can cause the muscles in the neck and upper back to go into spasms. These spasms can contribute to pain and further restrict neck movement.
6. Numbness or Tingling: In some cases, whiplash can cause sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands. This indicates possible nerve involvement or compression.
7. Dizziness and Fatigue: Some individuals with whiplash may experience dizziness or fatigue. They may feel lightheaded or have difficulty concentrating.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a whiplash injury, as proper diagnosis and early treatment can facilitate recovery. A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to assess the extent of the injury and rule out other possible conditions.

Treatments For Whiplash

Treatment for whiplash typically involves a combination of conservative measures, including:

1. Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
2. Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the neck, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and gradually reintroducing gentle movement and exercise as directed by a healthcare professional.
3. Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs or heat packs to the neck can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
4. Neck Brace or Collar: In some cases, a neck brace or collar may be prescribed to provide support and limit movement during the initial stages of healing.
5. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises and stretches to improve range of motion, strengthen neck muscles, and promote healing.
6. Massage and Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, mobilization, or gentle manipulation may be used to relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
7. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT techniques may be beneficial for managing any associated psychological distress, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Most people who suffer an incident of whiplash tend to heal on their own within a few weeks by following a treatment plan that includes pain medication and light exercise. However, some people suffer chronic neck pain and some lingering complications.

Call 817.697.4038 to visit one of our Orthopedic Spine Surgeons or Pain Management Specialists today!