The key to a successful treatment for a whiplash injury to the neck (cervical spine) is early intervention. For those suffering from a whiplash injury that is more chronic, a positive outcome with treatment tends to be more of a challenge.
What is a whiplash injury to the neck?
The term whiplash is used to describe neck injuries associated with an acceleration – deceleration force to the head and neck. This most often is caused by a motor vehicle accident, a sports injury, a fall or any other strong jolting movement to the head and neck.
The rapid acceleration and deceleration of the neck with these injuries strains the muscles, ligaments (which are tough fibrous tissue which connects bone to bone) and nerves of the cervical spine.
Symptoms may include:
- Neck pain
- Loss of range of motion of the neck
- Headaches (usually starting at the back of the skull and may radiate into the head)
- Dizziness
- Shoulder and arm pain
Less common symptoms which may require you to see your doctor include:
- Blurred vision
- Numbness and/or tingling in your upper back and down your arms
- Ringing in your ears
- Depression
- Changes in your personality
- Weakness in your arms and/or hands
Evidence shows that most of the recovery after a whiplash happens in the first few months post injury. An early thorough assessment of your injury and proper treatment is imperative for a better chance at a good outcome.
If you have had a whiplash injury see our physiotherapists at the Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic for a full assessment and proper treatment of your injury at 905-428-7800.
