Neck Pain And Whiplash
Recognizing And Managing The Symptoms Of Whiplash
By Jarrett Kruse
Whiplash most often occurs after auto accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. This form of neck injury most often results in stiffness and neck pain, but sometimes you can have other symptoms of whiplash as well including headaches or dizziness. While whiplash is associated with neck pain, the kind of impact that causes whiplash can frequently cause lower back pain as well. Treatment for whiplash can include medication, ice, or cervical collars, or gradual gentle stretching. Like people dealing with neck pain and pinched nerves, people recovering from whiplash may find time and rest some of the best neck pain treatment.
Like most neck injuries, whiplash can have a variety of symptoms. Sometimes you don’t feel the symptoms until a few days after the injury.Most common are neck pain, muscle aches and stiffness, but you may experience any of the following:
- Headaches
- Pain in the shoulder or between the shoulder blades
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
Most commonly caused by auto accidents, whiplash can also occur after a rough roller coaster ride, contact sport collisions, or after being punched or shaken. Most of the time over-the-counter pain killers can be effective, but sometimes a prescription pain killer or muscle relaxer may be in order. Sometimes wearing a cervical is recommended, but it should be used sparingly and only within the first few weeks of the injury. Applying ice or heat or alternating the two can also help, as can a program of gradual stretching exercises. Most of the time pain subsides within a few weeks. If it doesn’t your doctor may recommend physical therapy or an injection of corticosteroid
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