A whiplash injury occurs when the neck suddenly jerks backward and forward due to a sudden impact; this can happen during a rear-end car accident, sports collision or physical assault. The sudden change in motion — acceleration and deceleration of the head — causes the neck to hyperextend and then hyperflex. This can strain the muscles, ligaments and tendons in the neck, resulting in pain, stiffness and limited mobility.
Symptoms of whiplash injury
Symptoms of whiplash injuries typically appear within 24 hours of the incident. These may include pain and stiffness in the neck, reduced range of motion, headaches (often starting at the base of the skull), tenderness or pain in the shoulders and upper back, fatigue, dizziness and reduced concentration or memory. “In some cases, people also experience blurred vision, ringing in the ears, difficulty sleeping, irritability and psychological symptoms like anxiety or depression,” says Dr Ramkinkar Jha, chief and unit head, orthopedics, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram. “These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the extent of the injury.”
In most cases, the pain and other symptoms subside in a few days. However, if they persist, it can be a matter of concern. “In some cases, whiplash injuries can damage the spinal cord, cervical spine or ligaments and muscles of the cervical region. However, such effects may not occur at all. Nevertheless, the injury can impact an individual in such a way that they don’t feel confident doing the things that led to it, whether it’s going behind the wheel or playing a particular sport,” says Dr Darshan Angadi, consultant orthopedic surgeon, Altius Hospitals, Bangalore.
One can assess the severity of the injury based on how the pain manifests and progresses from the point of origin. “Apart from the discomfort, stiffness or soreness, if you start to feel that the pain from your neck is traveling down to your arm or experience a tingling sensation in either arm, hand or fingers, it’s a sign of serious injury,” notes Dr Angadi.
Whiplash injury: Who’s vulnerable?
Athletes participating in contact sports such as football, rugby or martial arts are at risk of whiplash from impact or collisions. “Other factors that may increase susceptibility include occupations that involve repetitive or sudden neck movements, such as construction work or heavy lifting; individuals with pre-existing neck conditions or poor posture are also vulnerable,” explains Dr Jha. Additionally, age and sex can influence the possibility of the injury, with women and older adults being more susceptible.
Treating whiplash injuries
Whiplash injuries usually get better with time. The treatment modalities include rest, icing, and over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, gentle neck exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve flexibility and strength in the muscles. Heat therapy, massage and chiropractic adjustments could also provide relief.
Doctors may also prescribe muscle relaxants or corticosteroid injections and suggest using a cervical collar temporarily to immobilize the neck. Returning to normal activities in a gradual manner is suggested. Severe cases of whiplash injuries require advanced medical intervention (depending on the type of injury or its implications) to manage pain and facilitate healing.
Takeaways
- Whiplash injuries are caused by a sudden impact where the neck suddenly jerks backward and then forward.
- Typically appearing within a day of the incident, the symptoms of the injury include pain and stiffness in the neck, headache, fatigue, dizziness and reduced concentration.
- Whiplash injuries are generally minor and get better with time. Treatment modalities include rest, icing and pain relievers. However, severe cases require advanced medical intervention.
