Articles » Injuries » Injuries of the torso » Whiplash

Whiplash

What it Effects

• The structures around the neck mainly muscles and ligaments
• Small joints called facet joints in the neck can also be damaged if compressed
• Depending on the severity of the injury there maybe damage to blood vessels, discs, bone and / or the spinal cord

Who it Effects

• Most commonly people involved in a RTA (Road Traffic Accident) via a head on collision or rear end collision

Mechanism of Injury

• RTA- head on / rear end / side impact / speed / stationary

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Possible tingling and numbness down the arms
• Muscle weakness in the arms
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Hearing problems
• Muscle spasm
• Ringing in the ears
• Vomiting

Treatment

• Hot packs
• Stretching exercises for-flexion, extension, side flexion and rotation
• Ultrasound

Additional Information

• Immobilising the neck is not commonly advised
• The five D’s:
  • Dizziness
  • Diplopia (visual disturbance / double vision)
  • Drop attacks
  • Dysphasia (speech problems)
  • Dysphagia (swallowing problems)

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms see your GP due to the risk of VBI (vertebral artery insufficiency). Physiotherapists should test for this condition during assessment.

If you have any questions, please use the comment form below or post a thread on the forums.