Whiplash

Whiplash is also known as neck strain. Neck strain occurs when a heavy force is suddenly applied to the neck region. This blow ruptures the muscles in the neck. Whiplash is mostly caused by accidents but can also be the result of any forceful impact that causes the head to jerk forward or backward.

What Causes Whiplash?

What Should You Do if You Have Whiplash?

If you have an accident and begin to notice the painful symptoms of whiplash, you should go see your doctor immediately. It is very important that you begin to receive treatment shortly after it happens so that the recovery process doesn’t take long. Also, early treatment would reduce the risk of your neck strain leading to other conditions.

How is Whiplash Diagnosed?

You will need to provide your doctor with detailed information about your symptoms and how the accident happened. Before performing a physical exam on you or any tests, your doctor may also ask if you’re able to perform certain activities.

How Can Whiplash Be Treated?

Whiplash can heal by taking prescribed pain medications but with physical therapy, exercise, and in some cases, alternative treatment, recovery is faster.

Physical therapy

A physical therapist can help with pain management and exercises to aid a better range of motion. Some of the exercises a physical therapist may ask you to do are:

  • Tilt your head from side to side
  • Roll your shoulders
  • Get your head to rest on your chest

He would also create a routine to help stretch the muscles. The more committed you are to performing these exercises the faster your recovery process. It may be challenging at first but it sure has its rewards.

Foam collar

Your doctor may recommend wearing a foam collar. Foam collars are used to hold the neck and head in one position. This helps limit motion and pain.

There are, however, studies that show that keeping the head still affects muscle strength and impedes faster recovery. So your doctor may only recommend wearing it for a short time.

Other Pain Management Techniques

Apply a hot or cold compress

Get a towel and dip it into a bowl of hot or cold water, squeeze and apply to your neck for at least 15 minutes. A warm/cold compress will help reduce the pain and relax the muscles. This process can be repeated for up to 5 times a day.

Get adequate rest

You are better off getting as much rest as you possibly can. The only time you should get busy is during physical therapy and when you need to perform basic functions.

Conclusion

Anyone can suffer from whiplash, but it doesn’t have to last longer than it should or cause other health issues. The earlier you get a diagnosis and begin treatment for whiplash the faster your recovery process. And if your neck strain affects your ability to talk you should consult your doctor immediately.

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