Whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden head movement, usually resulting in pain and discomfort. It can be caused by a car accident, sports injury, or other incident in which the head is moved forward or backward. While whiplash can heal on its own, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure proper healing and relief. Dr.
Robert Bolash, a pain management specialist at Cleveland Clinic, explains that whiplash occurs when structures in the neck, such as discs, ligaments, nerves, or muscles, are damaged. In some cases, a small vessel may tear and release inflammatory substances in the neck, causing swelling and pain. The more severe the pain after the initial injury and the higher the level of anxiety, the more likely it is that short-term acute neck pain will become a chronic problem. The goal of treatment is to recover range of motion as quickly as possible. Physical therapy is often recommended to help with this process.
Stretching, turning and moving the neck back and forth can help relieve tight muscles and neck pain. It is important to keep joints and muscles moving rather than immobilizing them with a soft neck collar. If you are still experiencing significant pain after three months, it is important to consult your doctor for further evaluation and treatment. Without treatment, these injuries can turn into chronic pain that can make even the simplest tasks difficult. Chronic pain can persist for weeks, months, or even years.
Treating Whiplash
There is limited evidence in the current medical literature to support certain methods of treating whiplash over others.Studies have shown that about 8% of people injured in a whiplash accident who participated in the study had not yet returned to their full work tasks one year after suffering a whiplash injury. Treatment for whiplash typically includes physical therapy and medications to relieve pain. Physical therapy helps to reduce inflammation and improve range of motion. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help reduce muscle spasms. Alternative treatments such as acupuncture and chiropractic care may also be beneficial for treating whiplash.
Acupuncture helps to relieve pain by stimulating specific points on the body with needles. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring joint mobility by applying pressure to joints that have become restricted due to injury or illness. It is important to seek medical attention if you think you may have whiplash. Early diagnosis and treatment can help ensure proper healing and relief from pain.
