Whiplash is a common
term for an injury that occurs to the cervical vertebrae and supporting
soft tissues. The injury is caused by a sudden jerking, acceleration, or
forward acceleration of the head with respect to the vertebral column.
Most often cervical whiplash is associated with an automobile accident
that produces a sudden and forceful forward or backward “whipping” of the
head and neck.
Symptoms of cervical whiplash
occur as a result of muscle and ligament sprains and strains to the cervical
portion of the spine and supporting tissues in the neck. Common symptoms
of cervical whiplash include:
-
Neck pain at the base of the
neck that increases over time
-
Decreased ability to move the
neck
-
Increased pain with movement
-
Muscle spasms in the neck
In some cases, there are no
symptoms for hours to days after the accident. However, symptoms gradually
appear and progressively worsen.
Other symptoms that may occur
include:
-
Visual changes, such as blurred
vision
-
Nausea
-
Increase in frequency, intensity
and duration of migraine headaches
Your physician may include some
of the following methods to treat whiplash:
-
Rest can enable the body to
heal.
-
A soft cervical collar may be
worn to reduce strain on the muscles and ligaments of the cervical spine
and decrease pain. If a cervical collar is prescribed, it should be worn
as instructed.
-
Aspirin, ibuprofen, or other
anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed to decrease inflammation,
reduce muscle spasm, and decrease pain. Muscle relaxants are sometimes
prescribed for a short time to promote rest, reduce muscle spasm, and decrease
pain.
-
Physical therapy, including
heat in the initial stages, then cold therapy.
-
Isometric and range of motion
exercises may be prescribed and a physical therapy consultation may be
recommended.
Be sure to tell your doctor
if:
-
Symptoms worsen or new symptoms
develop.
-
Symptoms become worrisome.
