Whiplash Injury (Neck Pain) and Treatment Options
A whiplash injury occurs when a strong force causes your head and neck to be quickly thrown forwards then backwards. This rapid motion can cause injuries to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones of the spine, and/or the nerves of the head and neck. Whiplash injury can occur even when there was no physical contact with the head. Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) can be classified by the severity of the injury and are commonly given a grade between zero (0) and four (4).
Grade 0
No complaints of physical signs
Grade 1
Neck pain, but no physical signs
Grade 2
Neck pain and evidence of musculoskeletal injury (muscle, tendon, ligament)
Grade 3
Neck pain and evidence of neurological injury
Grade 4
Neck pain and evidence of fracture/dislocation
Symptoms of Whiplash
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Loss of flexibility in the neck
- Pain with head or neck movement
- Headaches
- Tingling or numbness in the neck or arm(s)
- Tenderness in the head, neck and shoulder regions
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in mood
- Memory issues
Causes of Whiplash
The most common causes of whiplash are as follows:
Car Accidents (especially rear-end collisions)
Contact sports
Slips and Falls
Physical trauma/abuse
Prevention
Given that whiplash is usually caused by a traumatic event, it can be difficult to prevent. However; individuals with a previous history of neck or back injuries, participation in high-contact sports and a prior history of a whiplash injury increase the chance of whiplash occurring.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy can assist with managing pain, regaining any loss of range of motion and strength, and any associated headaches, vision changes, dizziness, or numbness/tingling. Physiotherapy will help get you back to your regular activities as quickly and efficiently as possible! Our physiotherapists are happy to work with your family physician or other health care professionals to deliver an integrated approach to your rehabilitation. We have lots of experience treating whiplash injury.
Why choose Pillars of Wellness?
At Pillars of Wellness, in Burlington, Ontario, we are proud to provide a truly integrated care approach that employs a variety of treatments to achieve a faster recovery. Our clinic offers various services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, naturopathy, counselling, occupational therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, and holistic nutrition. With multiple services and specialties in one place, you’ll get the best care possible — without having to look elsewhere. Pillars of Wellness is your one-stop-health solution, located right here in Burlington.
Last but not least, physiotherapy is typically covered under most extended health insurance plans. If you do not have coverage or have exceeded your coverage limits, you can consult with our Chiropractors. All of our Chiropractors and Physiotherapist have skills and techniques to treat and manage postural strain and associated symptoms.
Additional Physiotherapy Services
Conditions We Treat
Neuro Physiotherapy
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy