How Physiotherapy for Whiplash Can Help
Whiplash can be an incredibly inconvenient injury that can occur in a number of different ways, and it shouldn’t be left untreated if you think you have it. Here at Physio Wellbeing we treat a wide range of injuries and pains that you may be experiencing in order to get you back into your usual routine as soon as possible! Whiplash is a common injury and most people make a full recovery, but it’s important that you take control of the situation and be proactive.
What causes whiplash?
Whiplash is caused by vigorous movement of the head, which in turn overstretches and damages ligaments and tendons in the neck. This may be caused by movement that occurs forwards, backwards or even sideways and often happens after a sudden impact.
Road traffic accidents are the most common cause of whiplash, but there are other instances too. A sudden blow to the head from contact sports like boxing and rugby could very easily instigate whiplash. A slip or fall where the head is jolted back could also be part of causing whiplash, as could being hit on the head with something heavy.
Main symptoms of whiplash
The more obvious signs that you are suffering from whiplash include pain or stiffness in the neck and shoulders. As well as this, you may experience pain in your lower or upper back which can become worse with time.
Headaches are another common symptom; the problem here is most people would not associate headaches with a bigger injury. If you notice jaw pain or dizziness as well, you should seek help as soon as you can!
Why should you treat whiplash?
Whiplash can get worse the longer it is left untreated. Symptoms could take up to 6 to 12 hours to develop; even if you don’t feel any pain straight away you could still have done some damage. You may not even feel any pain or other symptoms for days and weeks after your accident.
Symptoms can last around 6 months which could cause inconvenience to your daily life if you do not seek assistance.
How to treat whiplash
As a physiotherapy clinic, we can help to assess your injury and find the best treatment plan. Physiotherapy for whiplash could consist of hands on treatment as well as advising you on how to manage your pain.
Whiplash is primarily muscle strain due to an impact and immediate treatment is your best defence. It is important that you keep your neck moving; here at physiotherapy we understand that you may need to return to work as soon as possible so it is our priority to help restore the range of movement after your injury.
Exercise can help reduce pain and by attending physio sessions you will learn the best way to do this. On top of this, massage may help lessen tension and you may receive postural advice to continue the recovery process.
If you think you are suffering from whiplash, contact us today to book an appointment. Let Physio Wellbeing get you back to your normal routine!