Whiplash is a neck injury that involves its soft tissues. It happens when the neck is suddenly and forcefully thrown forward and/or backward. Whiplash is frequently the result of a rear-end car accident. The neck’s complex anatomy and extensive range of motion make it especially vulnerable to this kind of damage. A severe enough case of whiplash can harm intervertebral joints, ligaments, cervical muscles, discs and nerve roots.
When you require a physical therapist who is dedicated to providing the topmost standard of personalized care for whiplash or any other issue, look no further than the office of The Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Center. We offer extensive services for people of all ages and with any type of need.
Neck pain is the main symptom of whiplash. It can show up right after or hours or days after the incident. Other indications can be a headache, blurred vision, dizziness, difficulties chewing and swallowing, a hoarse throat, and aches, numbness or tingling in the neck, shoulder, back and/or arms. Whiplash is diagnosed with physical and neurological exams and X-rays of the neck. Imaging tests, such as a CAT scan or MRI, can evaluate the health of the cervical spine’s soft tissues.
If physical therapy is recommended, a physical therapist will help you strengthen your injured neck muscles, reduce muscle spasms and increase blood circulation in the area. Treatment can include electrical stimulation, heat therapy, ice therapy, ultrasound care and range-of-motion exercises. The good news is that whiplash is rarely treated with surgery; most people can quickly return to their healthy, pain-free lives.
If your whiplash recovery includes physical therapy, count on The Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Center. Our team is made up of friendly, highly trained specialists who are eager to help you feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the very best in care. For more information about how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.