A whiplash injury typically occurs when a static car is rear ended by another traveling at speed- this causes the car drivers head to be thrown forward then backwards causing a traumatic injury to the neck. Pain may be noticed immediately or in the days following the accident. The area of pain can extend into one or both arms and headaches are common. These type of injuries vary hugely in severity the severe ones may even get fractures in the neck bones. Generally it is just soft tissue that is damaged.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Initial assessment will involve a history taking followed by an examination of the neck joints range of motion and muscle strenght. A neurological examination of the arms - to test muscle strenght and nerve sensitivity may also be undertaken especially if the patient has arm pain , pins and needles or numbness.

Treatment initially will involve pain management and electrotherapeutc modalities may be used to help with pain control. A tempory soft collar may be prescribed. Restoration of normal neck movement will be the main aim and manual therapy and exercise will be used to attain this.