What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a condition in which the head moves rapidly in a back-and-forth motion out of your control, injuring the muscles and ligaments (tough fibrous tissues that connect bone to bone) in the neck. Whiplash can be referred to as a “neck sprain” or “neck strain”. Whiplash injuries are collectively called Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD).
What Causes Whiplash?
Most often whiplash is caused by being rear-ended in a car accident or due to a sports injury, such as a fall snowboarding, a football tackles, or a heavy blow to the head. Whiplash associated disorder (WAD) is a condition caused by whiplash.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash?
The first symptoms of whiplash may not show up for one or two days after the occurrence of an accident. Hence it is important to monitor the symptoms carefully and look out for signs of injury or pain. Neck pain and stiffness, Pain and difficulty in moving the head and neck, Decreased range of motion of the neck, Headaches, usually starting at the base of the skull, Dizziness, Inability to move a joint and Tiredness. Less common symptoms associated with whiplash that require consulting a doctor are: Blurred vision, Tingling or numbness in the upper back and arms, Ringing in the ears (tinnitus), Insomnia, Changes in personality such as irritability or increased anger, Depression, Difficulty with your memory and Difficulty concentrating.
Are you looking for physiotherapy or a Chiropractor? If Yes, then visit Simply Align Rehab Physio in Scarborough/Toronto or Woodbridge/Vaughan or you can always call or text us for your Physiotherapy or Chiropractor needs in Toronto at (416) 438-3230 or For Physiotherapy or Chiropractor need in Vaughan (Woodbridge) at (905) 638-9840.
What is Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD)?
Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) is the collection of symptoms caused by whiplash, graded on a scale, based on the severity of the symptoms and called Levels of Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD).It is measured on a scale from grade one to grade four depending on the severity of the injury. Grade I: No physical sign of damage to neck, but there is pain, stiffness, and/or tenderness in the neck. Grade II: Decreased range of motion of the neck with pain, stiffness, and/or tenderness in the neck. Grade III: Signs of neck pain from grades I and II, and neurological symptoms like reduced reflexes or difficulty concentrating. Grade IV: Signs of neck pain from grades I and II, and a neck fracture or dislocation.
Treating Whiplash in Scarborough, Toronto & Woodbridge, Vaughan
Mild whiplash can be treated at home and in a clinical setting. Treatment to ease the pain associated with whiplash, include Rest, Heat and ice therapy, Avoid activities and Use of anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease the pain. More severe levels of whiplash must be treated in a clinical setting. Physiotherapy for Whiplash: A physiotherapist will assess the condition and depending on the cause and severity, treatment is provided. Strengthening and range of motion exercises, Manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilizations), Soft tissue massage, Personalized exercise plan, A brace to support the neck, Assistive devices to improve neck support, such as therapeutic pillows, Functional retraining and activity modification, Pain relieving modalities such as Therapeutic ultrasound, Heat and ice therapy, Electrical stimulation and Acupuncture.
At our clinic we have notice by using Simply Align Technique which includes advanced physical modalities, activity modification and specific exercises we have faster, longer lasting results with reduced healing time.
Concerned about whiplash? Book an assessment with our physiotherapist in Toronto or Vaughan today.
Can Whiplash Go Away on its own?
Yes, mild conditions of whiplash can be resolved with home treatment. However, due to the complex nature of the injury, sometimes symptoms resurface months later. Hence, seeking treatment at the time of the original injury is best for treating whiplash. If you have sustained whiplash from a car accident, it is important to get an assessment from a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or family physician immediately after the accident. Motor vehicle insurance will usually cover some or all of the costs for Whiplash Associated Disorder injuries.
Can You Prevent Whiplash?
Whiplash is often caused by a motor vehicle accident, so it is difficult to prevent. However, you can take appropriate preventive measures. Ensure that the car head rest is fitted correctly; Wear a seat belt and Adopt safe driving practices. Concerned about whiplash? Book an assessment with a physiotherapist today.
Also Read
| Degenerative Disc Disease (Intervertebral Disc Pain) | Low Back Pain |
| Low Back Osteoarthritis | Lumbar Spondylosis |
| Sciatica | Whiplash |
| Scoliosis | Upper Back and Shoulder Pain |
