At APC Physio & Sports Clinic, we've been using Whiplash Physiotherapy Treatment to help our patients relieve pain symptoms for over 15 years.
Often quite painful, a whiplash injury affects the neck and surrounding areas, leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Physiotherapy Treatment is essential for addressing these whiplash symptoms, providing relief, and facilitating recovery.
“Over the years, we have found that a lot of people with whiplash symptoms are worried about causing themselves even more pain. Worrying, of course, causes us to tense up which in turn can create more pain.”, says Patrick Hanley, Lead Physiotherapist, APC Physio & Sports Clinic. “To avoid more pain from your whiplash injuries, call us at APC, Dealing with whiplash and neck pain as quickly as possible is the best guarantee of pain relief.”
APC Physio & Sports Clinic back specialists have more than 10 years experience getting people moving again, pain free. Call us on 02535015 for our Fermoy Main Office or 085 7740559 for APC Cork, Club Vitae Clinic.
What Causes Whiplash?
Whiplash is primarily caused by a sudden and forceful back-and-forth or side-to-side jolt of the neck. This rapid motion can strain and damage the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues in the neck.
Common causes of whiplash include:
Car Accidents
Rear-end collisions are the most common cause of whiplash. The impact causes the head to snap forward and then quickly backward, leading to injury.
Sports Injuries
High-impact sports such as football, rugby, falling off a horse and martial arts can result in whiplash due to sudden impacts or falls.
Physical Assault
Being punched or shaken can cause the neck to move abruptly, resulting in whiplash.
Falls
Falling and landing in a way that causes the head to jerk can also lead to whiplash.
Amusement Park Rides
Rapid acceleration and deceleration in rides like roller coasters can cause whiplash-like injuries.
Understanding the causes of whiplash is crucial for both prevention and treatment. If you find yourself in situations with a high risk of neck injury, taking appropriate precautions, such as wearing seat belts and using proper safety gear during sports, can help reduce the risk of whiplash.
What are the symptoms of whiplash neck pain?
When whiplash occurs, the resulting events can include pain ranging from lower level ache to more severe debilitating pain that keeps you awake at night, and a limited ability to move or turn the neck or back. Your head may feel unusually heavy, and headaches are not uncommon. This can be accompanied by a general feeling of weakness and sluggishness, making even simple tasks challenging.
Without proper intervention, these symptoms can persist and develop into chronic pain in the neck and shoulders, further complicating recovery and diminishing quality of life.
Whiplash Injury Treatment
Physiotherapy for whiplash focuses on:
- reducing neck pain
- reducing neck stiffness
- restoring movement
- preventing the progression to persistent pain
Through a tailored treatment plan, APC physiotherapists work to alleviate discomfort, strengthen the affected muscles, and improve overall function. We use a comprehensive approach that not only addresses the immediate symptoms but that also promotes long-term health and mobility, ensuring that you can return to your normal activities with confidence.
Our WHIPLASH Phyiotherapy Treatment package can also include reports for work or insurance companies as required.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Whiplash?
The recovery time from whiplash can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury and individual factors.
For mild whiplash, the recovery time for whiplash patients varies from a few days to a few weeks. Mild whiplash symptoms are relatively manageable and include minor pain, stiffness with some impact to one’s range of movement. With proper rest and some basic exercises, recovery is usually quick.
For moderate whiplash, the recovery time can be several weeks to a few months. Moderate whiplash symptoms include more significant pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Physiotherapy is often recommended to aid in recovery and prevent chronic issues.
With Severe Whiplash injuries, the recovery time can unfortunately take several months and sometimes more than a year. Severe whiplash symptoms are severe, possibly including chronic pain, headaches, and substantial loss of motion all of which can significantly impact one’s ability to go about basic daily task. Comprehensive treatment, including physiotherapy, medication, and possibly other interventions, is typically required. Recovery can be prolonged and may require ongoing management.
Several factors influence recovery time for whiplash patients. More severe neck injuries naturally take longer to heal and rehabilitate back to normal functional levels.
However, early intervention with physiotherapy and appropriate medical care can speed up recovery considerably.
The overall health and fitness levels and age of whiplash patients and the presence of other medical conditions can affect recovery time. Older patients and patients with pre-existing lower back pain may find that they need longer to recover.
Adhering to the prescribed treatment plan, exercises and lifestyle adjustments, is crucial for a timely recovery.
Anatomy of the Neck
The neck, also known as the cervical spine, is a complex structure composed of vertebrae (bones stacked on top of one another), muscles, nerves, and other tissues that work together to support the head and allow for a wide range of motion. Understanding the anatomy of the neck is crucial for grasping how injuries like whiplash occur and the importance of targeted physiotherapy treatment.
Vertebrae
The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1-C7). These bones provide structural support and protect the spinal cord, a crucial component of the central nervous system.
Intervertebral Discs
Between each vertebra are intervertebral discs that act as cushions, absorbing shock and allowing flexibility in the spine.
Muscles
Numerous muscles surround the cervical spine, including the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and levator scapulae. These muscles facilitate movement and provide stability.
Ligaments
Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other, providing stability and limiting excessive movement that could lead to injury.
Nerves
The neck houses vital nerves that branch out from the spinal cord. These nerves control motor functions and transmit sensory information between the brain and the rest of the body.
Blood Vessels
Major blood vessels, such as the carotid arteries and jugular veins, run through the neck, supplying blood to and from the brain.
What Does Whiplash Physiotherapy Treatment Involve?
Pain, limited movement and uncertainty about what to do next are the 3 main problems that lead people to us following a whiplash event.
Our Whiplash physiotherapy treatment package includes a combination of hands-on assessment and treatments. We help you understand exactly what is going on with your neck, shoulders or back and what results to expect week on week.
We also have Personal Training and Rehabilitation classes to help you rebuild your strength after suffering whiplash. Specific exercises can help reduce muscle spasms improve spinal movement and build confidence.
What To Expect With Whiplash Physiotherapy Treatment
Patients who start physiotherapy early following a whiplash injury and who stick to the treatment plan and do their rehabilitation exercises are the patients who recover fastest.
Throughout their treatment and rehabilitation patients:
- steadily reduce their pain
- build strength
- improve confidence
- return to work
- return to exercising and sports
It is important to be aware that whiplash problems can take anything from 6 weeks to 6 months or more for a full and proper recovery. With our experience to guide you, you will be back on track as soon as possible and without recurring issues.
We pride ourselves on listening closely to all of the small details about your injury and to help you fully understand what is happening to your body so you can pick yourself up and take proactive steps to recovery.
Whiplash Injury FAQs
Quite often, we are asked the same questions about whiplash injuries. We understand that a neck injury can be quite a frightening experience and we aim to offer pain relief with whiplash treatment to ensure that you are back to yourself as soon as possible.
We encourage anyone who has experienced neck pain, be it from whiplash or otherwise, to avoid the advice of the ‘hurler on the pitch’ and to always seek professional pain treatment.
Is it okay to use ice or heat?
According to the HSE, it is okay to use both ice and heat for neck pain. In the initial stages following the injury, applying ice can help reduce inflammation and numb the painful area, typically for the first 48 to 72 hours. After this period, heat therapy can be beneficial to relax the muscles and improve blood flow, which aids in the healing process. Alternating between ice and heat can also provide relief from discomfort.
How long does whiplash treatment take to work?
The duration of whiplash treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s response to therapy. Generally, you may start to notice improvements within a few weeks. However, a complete recovery can take several months, with regular sessions typically needed for optimal results.
Your physiotherapist will tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs and monitor your progress closely.
Can I take anti-inflammatories or not?
Yes, you can take anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with whiplash. Non-prescription options such as ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly used. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider before starting any medication.
Should I try to keep moving or should I stop completely?
It is generally recommended to keep moving rather than stopping completely. Gentle, controlled movements and light activities can help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. However, it’s crucial to avoid any activities that exacerbate your pain or strain the injured area. Your physiotherapist can provide specific exercises and guidance on how to stay active safely while promoting healing.
If I move, am I at risk of causing more damage and/or pain?
Controlled and gentle movements are unlikely to cause further damage and can be beneficial for recovery. However, overexertion or improper movements can increase pain and potentially aggravate the injury. It’s important to follow the advice of your physiotherapist, who will guide you on the appropriate level and type of activity to avoid any risks.
When will I be able to drive again?
The ability to drive after a whiplash injury depends on the severity of your whiplash symptoms and your ability to move your neck comfortably and safely.
Typically, you should avoid driving until you can turn your head without pain and have regained sufficient range of motion. Your physiotherapist can give you a more precise timeline based on your recovery progress.
How long before I’m able to get back to work safely?
Returning to work after a whiplash injury depends on the nature of your job and the severity of your symptoms. For desk jobs or those with minimal physical demands, you may be able to return within a few days to weeks, with modifications if necessary.
Physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider and possibly adjust your work duties temporarily to ensure a safe return.
Will I be able to play sports again after suffering a whiplash sports injury?
Yes, you should be able to return to playing sports after a whiplash sports injury, but the timing will depend on your recovery progress and the type of sport.
It’s crucial to ensure that you have fully recovered and regained strength, flexibility, and range of motion before resuming sports activities. Your physiotherapist can provide a personalised rehabilitation program and guide you on the appropriate time to return to sports, reducing the risk of re-injury.
If you have any other queries or you are not quite sure where to begin, feel free to contact us online here, via email, or over the phone.
You can also avail of a free 15-minute physio consultation in the clinic with one of our physiotherapists to discuss your whiplash injury.
You can book online here or give us a call on 02535015 Fermoy Main Office or APC Cork, Club Vitae Clinic calls can be made to 085 7740559 today to talk through any questions and concerns you may have. Thanks for reading!
