Whiplash

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash can result from various accidents, though it is commonly associated with motor vehicle collisions. The rapid movement during an accident or fall causes the head and spine to whip back and forth. This sudden motion doesn't give the neck muscles enough time to react, causing strain, tearing, and damage to muscles, ligaments, and other tissues. In severe cases, fractures may occur in the cervical vertebrae.

Due to the immediate shock and trauma of an accident, pain might not be apparent right away. Whiplash often becomes more painful 1–2 days post-injury as inflammation develops and tissues swell. This can lead to headaches, discomfort during movement, and even numbness or tingling in the upper limbs.

If whiplash is not treated thoroughly, it can result in chronic neck muscle weakness, leading to ongoing issues. Strengthening and postural exercises are crucial for maintaining neck stability after a whiplash injury.

Schedule an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists today to discover how we can help you.

How Physiotherapy Helps

There are various stages of treatment to assist you after experiencing whiplash. Our physiotherapists will collaborate with your physician to determine the most effective treatment plan for your recovery and pain relief. Initially, gentle hands-on therapy, may be used to alleviate pain and aid the recovery of swollen tissues.

As you progress, the focus will shift to restoring range of motion and introducing gentle exercises. With improvement in pain and range of motion, strengthening and postural exercises will be incorporated to support a complete recovery. It is essential to follow the recommended treatment plan from your physiotherapist to achieve full recovery and prevent future complications. Contact us today to learn how we can help you relieve your whiplash pain swiftly and ensure a complete recovery.