Causes of Whiplash Injuries
By Ehren Allen, DPT/Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist
Whiplash Injuries
What are the Causes of Whiplash Injuries?
Whiplash injuries usually occur from:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Fall on stairs
- Contact Sports like Football, basketball, lacrosse, baseball, boxing, rugby, soccer etc.
To learn more about the anatomy of the neck or cervical region, please watch this VIDEO or this article on common neck injuries.
Imaging For Neck or Cervical Whiplash Injuries
X-ray or MRI can be performed after a whiplash injury to rule out fractures, ligament, muscle and tendon damage. X-ray films may include an open-mouth X-ray to examine the upper neck.
Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash:
- Muscle guarding and spasm
- Generalized non-specific pain in the neck and upper back
- visual, hearing, and swallowing disturbances
- Fatigue
Diagnosis of Whiplash
Whiplash Injury
When there is forceful trauma that involves the head and neck, it is important to have a medical exam. In some cases, concussion can also occur with the neck injury. Physical therapy is common with Whiplash to help tissue healing and restore mobility.
Treatment for Whiplash Injuries:
Physical therapy is helpful with treating Whiplash injuries. JOI Rehab clinicians incorporate treatment modalities to improve mobility and stability in the tissues of the head and neck. Treatments may include:
- Soft tissue manipulation
- Joint mobilization
- Range of Motion Exercises
- Strength and stretch training
- Traction
- Electrical Stimulation
- Laser Therapy
- Massage Therapy
Medical Massage Therapy like that seen in this VIDEO can help whiplash injury recovery.
- To schedule an appointment for physical or occupational therapy, call any of the 12 area JOI Rehab Centers or 904-858-7045. JOI rehab has a fast track program to get you into therapy ASAP. To find out more, go to: FAST TRACK SPINE
- Related Article: Common Reasons for Neck Pain.
If you need to schedule an appointment with a Neck Orthopedic Specialist, please call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online or click the link below.
By: Ehren Allen, PT
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