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.
Testimonials
"I recently hired their Physiotherapist for a sprained ankle. She came to visit me 3 times/week which made a huge difference as I couldn't walk very well. She was very professional and knowledgeable, with lots of patience. You can tell she is passionate and committed to helping others. The clinic was also very helpful and responded to my emails in a prompt manner" - Elora Cali
"This is the first time I give a review. I cannot say enough about this clinic. They are really amazing. Friendly, great customer service and helped me with a condition I have for years. Feeling better by the day. Thank you so much!" - Josephine Lagarde
Why 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.
