Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash is defined as a sudden extension of the cervical spine (backward movement of the neck) and flexion (forward movement of the neck). This is also referred to as a cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injury. Rear-end or side-impact motor vehicle collisions are the number one cause of whiplash with injury to the muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, and discs of the cervical spine.
Outpatient physical therapy treatment is first focused on easing pain and reducing inflammation. Ice and electrical stimulation treatments are commonly used.
Traction is a way to gently stretch the joints and muscles of the neck by using a machine or applying gentle pulling by hand. Massage and other hands-on treatments to ease muscle spasms and pain may also be needed.
Your therapist will teach you specific exercises to help tone and control the muscles that stabilize the neck and upper back within the comfortable range of motion.
Body mechanics can also be used to help you develop new movement habits, keeping your neck in safe positions as you go about your work and daily activities.
Your therapist will help tailor a program to help prepare you to go back to work, and also provide ideas for alternate forms of work.
Find out more: www.eorthopod.com/public/patient_education/6640/whiplash.html