Whiplash

Whiplash, also known as whiplash associated disorder (WAD) or cervical acceleration-deceleration injury (CAD), is characterized by a collection of symptoms that occur following damage to the neck, usually because of a sudden and unguarded movement of the head forwards and backward or side to side. Although most often associated with car accidents, it might just as easily happen riding a horse, bike, or roller coaster or while participating in sports like hockey, football or soccer.

Injury to intervertebral joints, discs, and ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots contribute to the symptom picture.

In the case of an automobile accident, too often the injury is made worse because of an improperly utilised headrest. The further away the head is from the headrest, the greater the distance it travels during a rear-end collision. Sideways impact also tends to increase the degree of damage due to the lack of head restraint.

Common symptoms include:

• Neck pain and/or stiffness
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty swallowing
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Pain between the shoulder blades
• Pain in the arms or legs, feet and hands
• Headache
• Low back pain and/or stiffness
• Shoulder pain
• Nausea
• Ringing in the ears
• Vertigo
• Numbness and tingling
• Pain in the jaw or face

Acute - Drugless pain relief can be provided through soft tissue and joint mobilization techniques. Early intervention will improve the range of motion and help to reduce the formation of scar tissue which often begins within two weeks following the injury. It is this scaring which most often leads to chronic soft tissue pain syndromes, which can last for years. Acupuncture may also be helpful at this stage of the injury.

Subacute - This stage begins after the pain is under control. Physical Therapy, massage therapy, exercise therapy, acupuncture and Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) are all used as needed. Through greater active participation of the patient, there is a gradual restoration of function and improved stability and strength.

Functional – Greater emphasis is placed on functional goals may it be work demands, activities of daily living or recreational and sport activities. Our therapists will work with you, your employer, your coach and your family to help you attain your goals.