Point Sports Therapy Clinic
digital
INJURY DATA
WHIPLASH
Whiplash is an injury caused by forceful, rapid back-and-forth movements. It leads to pain and reduced range of motion in the neck, shoulders and upper back.
Average recovery time -
Within 12 weeks
Likelihood of reoccurrence -
Medium
Digital illustration of whiplash generated by EVE.
Whiplash occurs when the head is forcefully jolted forwards and backwards and the neck exceeds the typical range of motion causing the muscles and ligaments to stretch. It is commonly caused by rear-end car accidents but can also occur from sports injuries and falls.
The forceful movement can injure/sprain the neck and surrounding areas such as the shoulders and upper back.
Whiplash is very common and considered a 'mild condition', however, it can cause long term symptoms.
Signs & SYMPTOMs
Neck, shoulder and upper back pain
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Pain on movement
Reduced range of motion
Headaches, most often starting at the base of the skull
Tenderness in the shoulder, upper back or arms
Tingling or numbness into the arms
Fatigue
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Sleep disturbances
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems
Depression
If you believe you have symptoms of whiplash please seek guidance from a medical professional! - EVE
Additional illustrations.
Above shows an expected VAS (pain) score for this injury as calculated by EVE.
sports
This injury is commonly seen in sports such as...
- Cheerleading
- Gymnastics
-Formula 1 racing
- Rugby
- Football
- Boxing
- Martial arts
treatment & prevention
Follow these steps to treat this injury....
Extra information
Ice is most effective within the first 72 hours of injury; however, it may slow down initial healing.
Consult a pharmacist regarding the use of anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants.
Wear a neck brace or collar for the first 48 hours (Do not wear for longer than 3 hours at a time!)
Get in touch with a sports therapist to assist with your injury rehabilitation journey.
Stay tuned for our upcoming therapist database!
Reach the starting point of your recovery by purchasing the complete injury rehabilitation package at the Self-Help Shop!
Follow these steps to prevent this injury....
DOs
Warm up throughly before commencing any exercise
Cool down completely after engaging in vigorous activities
Add strength training to your workout, specifically targeting your neck
Drive safely and always use a seatbelt
Regularly check your protective equipment before participating in sports
Ensure a gradual return to sport following an injury
Adjust the headrest of the car so the top is ear level and it is close to the back of your head
Incorporate regular breaks in activities that put significant strain in the area
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
DON'Ts
Do not take anti-inflammatories for the first 48 hours to avoid disrupting the healing process
Avoid playing sports if you are already fatigued
Do not ignore your pain/symptoms! Address them promptly for a better recovery
Refrain from doing high impact activities for prolonged periods
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.