Diagnosis and Treatment of Whiplash

Diagnosis and Treatment of Whiplash: How whiplash injuries occur is clearly understood, but the extent and type of injuries varies greatly. The diagnosis of whiplash is often one of exclusion. Most injuries are to soft tissues such as the disks, muscles and ligaments, and cannot be seen on standard X-rays. Your doctor may need to request specialized tests, such as computed tomography scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

In the past, whiplash injuries were often treated with immobilization in a cervical collar. However, the current trend is to encourage early movement, rather than immobilization. The soft collar may be used for a short term and on an intermittent basis.

Ice may be applied for the first 24 hours, followed by gentle active movement. Your doctor may provide you with a series of exercises that you can do at home. An early return to work is encouraged, even if your doctor must prescribe some temporary modifications in your work situation. No single treatment has been scientifically proven as effective as early Chiropractic care, but, massage, heat, ice, have all been beneficial for some patients.

As soon as possible, you should begin aerobic activities, such as walking. Your doctor may prescribe some isometric exercises as your condition improves. Symptoms resolve within several months for about 75 percent of people who have whiplash. Chronic conditions should be investigated further and might require surgery.

First Aid of Whiplash: Try over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen.
For at least 2 to 3 weeks, avoid activities that bring on or worsen your pain and stiffness. Don't lift or carry anything heavy or participate in sports.

Drugs to relieve the pain often cover up the symptoms allowing the patient to cause further injury to the effected soft tissue.

Call Barton Chiropractic at 685-2002 if:

• Neck pain and stiffness comes back after it had resolved.
• The pain spreads to your shoulders or arms.
• You have pain when you move your head.
• You have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms.