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Whiplash

We are a Galway-based chartered physiotherapy clinic that specialises in treating whiplash. Whiplash associated disorders (WAD) is the term used to described injuries sustained as a result of sudden acceleration-deceleration movements such as those associated with motor vehicle accidents. The term WAD is often used synonymously with the term whiplash, however whiplash refers to the mechanism of injury rather than the presence of symptoms such as pain, stiffness, muscle spasm and headache, in the absence of a lesion or structural pathology.

The prognosis of WAD is unknown and unpredictable. Some cases remain acute with a full recovery while some progress to chronic with long term pain and disability. Whiplash and WAD affect a variety of anatomical structures of the cervical spine depending on the force and direction of impact as well as many other factors. Early intervention is advisable and recommendations are relative rest, pain relief, basic stretching and strengthening exercises.

Causes

Causes of pain can be any of the following tissues (with the strain injury resulting in secondary oedema, haemorrhage, and inflammation):

  • Joints such as zygapophyseal joints, atlanto-axial joint (C1/C2) and atlanto-occipital joint C1/occiput
  • Intervertebral discs and cartilaginous endplates
  • Muscles
  • Ligaments
  • Bones (atlas, axis and C3-C7 vertebral bodies)
  • Nerve roots
  • Vascular system
  • Adjacent joints such as the temporomandibular joint, thoracic spine, ribs and shoulder complex
  • Peripheral vestibular system

Management

  • Education, resumption of normal activity, and mobilization exercises are generally the treatment of choice.
  • First-line treatments include analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, ice, and heat.
  • Most treatments alone appear to have moderate effectiveness with combinations of treatments being the most effective.
  • Exercise therapy is superior to collar therapy in reducing pain intensity and disability after whiplash injuries.
  • For the management of chronic whiplash, there is strong evidence that multidisciplinary therapy is effective which consists of an exercise program. Early mobilization is most effective when more serious clinical pathologies noted on examination and imaging diagnostics have been ruled out.
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Whiplash

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Whiplash FAQs

What is whiplash, and how does it occur?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, commonly occurring during car accidents, sports injuries, or falls. The sudden motion can cause strain or injury to the muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues in the neck.

What are the symptoms of whiplash?
Symptoms of whiplash typically include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and reduced range of motion. In some cases, people may also experience pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms, as well as numbness or tingling sensations.

How is whiplash diagnosed?
Whiplash is diagnosed through a physical examination, where a physiotherapist will assess your neck’s range of motion, pain levels, and any tenderness or muscle tightness. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out more severe injuries.

How can West Coast Physio help treat whiplash?
At West Coast Physio, we offer personalized treatment plans for whiplash that include manual therapy, gentle neck exercises, and posture correction to relieve pain and restore movement. Our approach helps reduce inflammation, improve muscle function, and prevent long-term complications from developing.

How long does it take to recover from whiplash with treatment from West Coast Physio?
Recovery from whiplash varies depending on the severity of the injury. With early intervention and consistent treatment at West Coast Physio, many patients see improvement within a few weeks, while more severe cases may take several months for full recovery.

Can whiplash lead to long-term issues?
Without proper treatment, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and persistent headaches. Early treatment at West Coast Physio can help minimize these risks by addressing the injury promptly and effectively.

When should I see West Coast Physio for whiplash?
You should seek help from West Coast Physio if you experience neck pain or stiffness following an accident, especially if the pain persists or worsens over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from becoming chronic and promote a faster recovery.

You are in safe hands at West Coast Physio. We have over 15 years’ combined experience in treating conditions such as whiplash associated disorders.

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COVID-19 INFORMATION

PHYSIOTHERAPY IS AN ESSENTIAL HEALTH SERVICE

During this pandemic, chartered physiotherapists at West Coast Physio will continue to provide services while following all relevant government COVID-19 guidelines to keep you safe during your visit, including screening for COVID-19 before each treatment.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical advice. If you have any questions about your condition, please do not hesitate to give us a call.

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