Whiplash Disorders Overview:
Whiplash disorders describe a painful neck injury that commonly results from an automobile accident. Whiplash is caused by an abrupt backward and/or forward jerking motion of the head that forces the neck beyond its normal range of motion, potentially causing the intervertebral joints, discs, ligaments, cervical muscles and nerve roots to become damaged. Whiplash injury may also be sustained by falling, a contact sports injury or other trauma. Whiplash disorders may cause long-term pain and discomfort, especially if not diagnosed and treated by a physician.
Symptoms & Treatment
Symptoms:
- Whiplash-associated disorders and symptoms may not be apparent for over 24 hours or more after the traumatic event, so it’s important to pay attention to any physical changes for a few days following any accident. Some of the most common whiplash symptoms are:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Decreased range of motion in the neck
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty swallowing
- Jaw pain
- Shoulder or back pain
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
Treatment
Treatment options for whiplash-associated disorders may include:
- Education
- Neck brace
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Injections
- Surgery (last option)
Typically, a combination of treatments works best to help alleviate the pain associated with whiplash.
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Common Questions
When can I expect to resume my normal activities?
Many people with whiplash-associated disorders are able to resume their normal activities after treatment. You’ll want to speak with a SpineOne physician to plan your particular treatment and get back into the swing of things.
Where can I get treatment for whiplash-associated disorders?
SpineOne is Denver’s premier medical center for the treatment of spine-related conditions and disorders, including whiplash-associated disorders. We recommend you call andschedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified physicians to start improving your quality of life.
My neck hurts but my car didn’t sustain much damage, could I have whiplash-associated disorder?
Yes. If you are experiencing common symptoms associated with whiplash and have been in a recent car accident, especially if hit from behind, you may have whiplash-associated disorders. Your intervertebral joints, discs, ligaments, cervical muscles and nerve roots may absolutely be damaged even if your car is not.
