Whiplash is an acceleration deceleration mechanism of energy transfer to the spine. It may result from a rear end or side impact as well as in other instances such as diving. The impact may result in bony or soft tissue injuries, which may lead to a variety of clinical manifestations, known as a Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD). WAD costs the UK economy £3.5 Billion a year!

The presenting symptoms of WAD:

Neck Pain and stiffness
Occipital Headache
Thoracolumbar Back Pain
Upper extremity pain
Arm Pins and Needles

2/3 of people fully recover and 2% can be permanently disabled. The prognosis of a WAD can be predicted from 3 months post accident. There was a median recovery time of 32 days and 12% (1 in 8) of people had not recovered within 6 months found in a French Insurance database, yet in the literature 45% of people with chronic neck pain attribute their ongoing issues to a car accident – when it all started.

Any exercise programme looking to help a WAD, should include strengthening of the neck and scapulae musculature.

The forces involved in a Whiplash type trauma can vary depending upon the direction of impact, the type of vehicles involved and if the brakes were applied or not – eg the handbrake in a rear end collision. The neck is not the only part of the spine to be potentially injured and thus for some people having lower back pain can be an issue and for others having headaches or balance problems following a whiplash type incident.

Physical harm is not the only type of harm that can be experienced following a road traffic incident. For those who have flashbacks and nightmares they could have psychological harm, as well as their body being physically harmed.  Lee is the only Chiropractor in the UK to be Med Co Accredited to assess Whiplash Injuries.

If you have a concern that is not being recognised, following an incident book your consultation today.