Whiplash occurs when a person’s head moves backward and then forward suddenly with great force. This injury is most common following a rear-end car collision. It can also result from physical abuse, sports injuries, or amusement park rides.
Whiplash results when the soft tissues (the muscles and ligaments) of your neck extend beyond their typical range of motion. Your symptoms might not appear for a while, so it is important to pay attention to any physical changes for a few days following any accident.
Whiplash will often get better within a few weeks or months. Whiplash is thought of as a relatively mild condition, but it can cause long-term pain, discomfort and severely limit activities
Causes of whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the muscles in your neck suffer a strain because of a rapid movement backward and then forward. The sudden motion causes your neck’s tendons and ligaments to stretch and tear, resulting in whiplash.
Some things that can cause whiplash include:
- car accidents
- physical abuse, such as being punched or shaken
- contact sports such as football, boxing, and karate
- horseback riding
- cycling accidents
- falls in which the head violently jerks backward
- blows to the head with a heavy object
What does whiplash feel like?
Symptoms usually appear within 24 hours after the incident that caused the whiplash. Sometimes, symptoms may develop after a few days. They can last for several weeks.
Common symptoms include:
- neck pain and stiffness
- headaches, specifically at the base of the skull
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- constant weariness
Less common symptoms associated with chronic whiplash include:
- problems with concentration and memory
- ringing in the ears
- inability to sleep well
- irritability
- chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, or head
You should follow up with your doctor immediately if:
- your symptoms spread to your shoulders or arms
- moving your head is painful
- you have numbness or weakness in your arms
When to get medical advice
Visit your GP if you have recently been involved in a road accident, or you have had a sudden impact to your head and you have pain and stiffness in your neck.
They will ask how the injury happened and about your symptoms. They may also examine your neck for muscle spasms and tenderness, and may assess the range of movement in your neck.
Scans and tests such as X-rays will usually only be carried out if a broken bone or other problem is suspected.
Whiplash will usually get better after some basic treatment.
Treatments for whiplash
- keeping your neck mobile and continuing with your normal activities – using a neck brace or collar is not recommended
- painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen – stronger painkillers are available on prescription if these do not help
- , exercises and stretches
If your pain lasts a long time, you may be referred for specialist treatment.
Painkilling injections and surgery are not normally used for whiplash.
The length of time it takes to recover from whiplash can vary and is very hard to predict.
Many people will feel better within a few weeks or months, but sometimes it can last up to a year or more.
Severe or prolonged pain can make it difficult to carry out daily activities and enjoy your leisure time. It may also cause problems at work and could lead to anxiety or depression.
Try to remain positive and focus on your treatment objectives.
Sources:www.healthline.com
NHS-UK
Compiled By; Nellie Nthiga,
BDM,
C & P Health Centre.
