Physiotherapy for Whiplash Guide

Chances are that if you were ever involved in a vehicle accident, you may have experienced a neck injury to an extent where you may need physiotherapy for whiplash. We may brush of this kind of pain as simply a very sore neck, but whiplash can also mean more severe and long term damage to the neck region. It is usually best to seek medical assistance if you think you may be suffering from whiplash as serious injuries to the neck region should be properly treated to avoid chronic pains and loss of mobility.

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a kind of neck sprain or neck strain, which is caused as a result of a sudden jerking of the head forward and backwards during an accident or a collision. Damage is usually sustained by the joints in the vertebrae, cervical disc, ligaments, muscles and nerve endings.

Causes of whiplash

The most common cause of whiplash is a rear end collision of a vehicle; however whiplash is also sometimes caused by high impact, and high speed activities such as bungee jumping, riding a roller coaster or even a fall during skiing. Physical abuse and assault are also known to cause whiplash injury.

Symptoms of whiplash

Whiplash is very similar to a neck sprain or neck strain, hence the symptoms are also similar. A stiff neck, neck pain and headaches are some of the common symptoms of whiplash. The symptoms generally start showing up within 24 hours of the injury and the pain can last anywhere between a few days to a few weeks. However, in some severe cases the pain may last for up to a few months.

How is whiplash diagnosed?

A physical examination of the injured area including the head, shoulder and arms are carried out. This is done to check the movement, tenderness and the reflexes in the neck, arms, and head. To get a detailed idea on the extent of the damage, imaging tests such as X-Rays, CT scans and MRI scans may also conducted.

Physiotherapy for Whiplash

Pain relief is the most important method of reducing the discomfort an injured person may experience. As whiplash is similar to neck sprains, the methods of pain relief are the same. Rest, application of heat or cold packs and medication are the commonly prescribed for pain relief after a person experiences whiplash. For a more severe whiplash injury, treatments as physiotherapy, prescription pain medications, and muscle relaxants can be used, when pain relief is needed in a particular spot. Some of the other treatments such as acupuncture, manual manipulation, massage therapy and even psychotherapy may be advised, in cases where the person suffers from trauma after the whiplash injury.

Do you Qualify for Free Physiotherapy for Whiplash?

There are various free medical treatments which you could qualify for, provided within your area, where there is availability. These free treatments may include diagnosis of the problem as well as recovery options such as physiotherapy specialists. This is especially important to take advantage of if you are eligible for a liability claim, as you will need to prove that you have received an examination from a medical professional.

Contact Medical Experts to find out more on Free Physiotherapy for Whiplash

If you are not certain as to whether you may in fact be suffering from whiplash or may need physiotherapy for whiplash, contact Medical Professional and our dedicated staff will be able to further advise you on your available option free of charge. We can assist you with treatment as well as pain management options.