10 tips to follow after sustaining a neck injury

Posted by Ahsan on June 5th, 2021

Do you suffer from neck pain? Wondering if these are symptoms associated with whiplash? What to do in these circumstances?

My article today presents the answers to the questions that I am often asked by my patients and by internet users regarding whiplash. I hope they will be of use to you.

1. What is the difference between whiplash and a whiplash?

No. It is a synonym. The term whiplash is also used.

2. What is whiplash?

The whiplash does not indicate a specific injury, but a violent, sudden, and involuntary movement of the head and neck while moving forwards, then backward.

3. I've been told that whiplash only happens in a car accident. That is true?

It's wrong. Lashes can also be associated with other contexts. Here are a few examples: a fall; a sports accident; aggression, such as domestic violence, a cause that is often underestimated and under-addressed. In North America, more than 20% of women have already been victims, according to the WHO.

4. What areas of the body does whiplash injury cause?

Mainly to neck structures, such as your muscles, ligaments, intervertebral discs, and vertebrae (e.g. facet joints).

5a. Is it serious?

Yes and no. There are 5 grades, from 0 to IV. The risk of serious injury is very low at a grade 0 whiplash. Grade IV is associated with fractures and severe injury to the joint. Grade II is the one from which the majority of my patients suffer. It is accompanied, among other things, by neck pain, a significant decrease in mobility, and muscle spasms.

6. Does the problem last long?

Most musculoskeletal problems associated with whiplash go away within the first few weeks. A relatively large proportion persists beyond three months. Several researchers estimate this proportion to be more than 30% of cases.

7. Can I find out if I am at risk?

Here are some risk factors for prolonged pain associated with whiplash:

The pain you had after the accident exceeded 7 on a scale of 10.

You have had nausea or headaches since the accident.

You have lost a lot of cervical mobility.

You have numbness or pain in your arms or hands.

You suffered from neck pain before the accident.

8. Do I have to cease my activities completely?

Ideally, no. Immobilization and complete rest are generally not recommended. As much as possible, maintain activities that do not worsen your condition. It will certainly be necessary to adapt them by reducing their duration or their level of intensity. Also, it is sometimes difficult to identify the activities that are at risk of slowing down your recovery. If in doubt, consult a health professional to see more clearly.

9. What can I do?

There are several things you can do, such as exercise, to help you maintain and gradually regain your mobility.

Also, you can use self-massages to relax the muscles in your neck, your shoulders, and those located between your shoulder blades. Do breathing exercises, gentle and progressive, especially paying attention to the exhalation.

10. When should I consult?

There is no bad time to consult. However, if you do not notice any improvement during the first three days, it is recommended that you consult a health professional who is part of a professional order, such as a physiotherapist or a physical rehabilitation therapist.

In the context of a whiplash, caution is required, the neck being one of the most vulnerable places in your body. Many people improvise themselves as therapists without mastering the necessary skills or knowledge.