Whiplash Associated Disorder

Whiplash Associated Disorder

Whiplash Associated Disorder is when soft tissue damage (stretch, tearing or rupture) to the ligaments, muscles, intervertebral discs, and other tissues surrounding the cervical spine leads can lead to a variety of symptoms. This typically occurs after a rapid acceleration/deceleration of the neck with some twisting involved. During the trauma damage can occur to the muscles at the front and back of the neck. The movement that causes this is hyperextension (hyper = increase) and hyperflexion.

Symptoms of whiplash associated disorder include neurological referral to the upper extremities, local swelling and redness, headaches, decreased sleep and range of motion. Dizziness can also occur that can be accompanied by ear ringing and double vision.

There are three grades of whiplash disorder. Grade one is when there is mild swelling and stretch, no instability, mild pain at end of range and recovery occurs within two to fourteen days. Grade two involves mild to moderate swelling and instability, ligament damage and recovery occurs between fourteen days and two months. Finally grade three is when there is severe swelling with clear bruising. Possible fracture with instability and ligament damage, complete loss of motion and recovery takes one to three months.

Whiplash most commonly occurs in women in their late 30’s and early 40’s and commonly occurs during motor vehicle accidents, skating and surfing incidents.

Assessment:

Testing of all range of motion of the neck is important to identify any joint sprains or ligament/muscle strains and they are often identified during range of motion. Tests aimed at identifying nerve tension, referral pain and joint injury are also performed. Neurological testing of the nerves of the upper limb (arm) and the head are also performed regardless of whether the patient is experiencing neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling weakness) or is feeling dazed. Imaging such as CT scans can be helpful in showing decreased cervical lordosis (angle of the neck). MRI can also show impact on the soft tissue (muscle, ligament).

Review of evidence for management

Manual Therapy has been shown to decrease muscular tension, increase biomechanical function and prevent contractures. It is not recommended to manipulate in the acute stages of injury however mobilisation of the area to increase blood flow to tissues and impact neuromuscular link to decrease guarding and therefore tissue tension. Once past the acute stage of whiplash depending on the severity manipulation may be considered.

Passive methods such as the use of ice, heat, tens machines and manual therapy assist in preventing chronic pain and disability. They can also decrease inflammation as well as stretch and strengthen muscles of the cervical spine. Your therapist may provide activities that aim to improve strength, endurance, posture, body mechanics and flexibility. It is recommended the patient attend sessions 3 times per week for 4-8 weeks.

Preventatively if patients are involved in a high intensity sport it is recommended that patients stretch before and after activity especially if they are involved in high intensity sport.

Long term therapy includes regaining quality and full quantity of range of motion as well as postural teachings to ensure stabilisation, decreased loading and increased ergonomics.

If you would like too receive treatment for whiplash please call 07 5613 3505 or book through our website.

References

Bickley, R., Belyea, C.M., Harpstrite, J.K., Min, K.S. (2021). Surfing Injuries: A Review for the Orthopaedic Surgeon.  Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 9 (4). Pp 1-9. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.RVW.20.00152

Freeman, M.D., Talavera, F., Klein, M.J., Hunter Jr., O.K., Childers, M.K. (2021, April 9). Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment & Management. Medscape. Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment & Management: Rehabilitation Program, Medical Issues/Complications, Surgical Intervention (medscape.com)

Matsushita, E. (2019). Oupatient physical therapy for a patient with chronic neck

pain secondary to whiplash associated disorder. [PhD Thesis, California State University] 5712m7024 (calstate.edu)

McArthur, K., Jorgensen, D., Climstein, M., Furness, J. (2020). Epidemiology of Acute Injuries in Surfing: Type, Location, Mechanism, Severity, and Incidence: A Systematic Review. Sports, 8(2), pp 25. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8020025

Meir R.A, Zhou, S., Rolfe, M.I., Gilleard, W.L., Coutts, R.A. An investigation of surf participation and injury prevalence in Australian surfers: a self-reported retrospective analysis. New Zea- land J Sports Med. 2012;39(2):52-8. (PDF) An investigation of surf participation and injury prevalence in Australian surfers: a self-reported retrospective analysis (researchgate.net)

Parravicini, G. (PT, DO) & Ghiringhelli, M. (PT, DO) (2021). Osteopathic Cranial Manipulation for a Patient With Whiplash-Associated Disorder: A Case Report. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 20(3), pp. 163-169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2021.12.003

 

Vizniak, N.A., (2019). Evidence-Informed Orthopaedic Conditions. 3rd edition. Prohealthsys.

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Common Causes Of Neck Pain and How an Osteopath Can Help

Common Causes Of Neck Pain and How an Osteopath Can Help

Common Causes of Neck Pain and How an Osteopath Can Help

Neck pain is a common condition that affects numerous individuals at some point in their lives. It can be caused by various factors, ranging from poor posture and muscle strain to trauma and underlying medical conditions. If you’re suffering from neck pain, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes and seek appropriate treatment. In this article, we will explore some common causes of neck pain and how an osteopath can help alleviate your discomfort.

Poor Posture and Muscular Imbalances

One of the leading contributors to neck pain is poor posture. Many of us spend hours sitting hunched over a computer or crane our necks downwards to look at our smartphones, unknowingly placing tremendous strain on the neck and upper back muscles. This prolonged stress can lead to muscular imbalances and tension, ultimately resulting in neck pain.

Additionally, sedentary lifestyles and lack of physical activity can weaken the neck muscles, making them more susceptible to injury and pain. Osteopaths are skilled professionals who can assess your posture and identify muscular imbalances that may be causing your discomfort. Through targeted manual techniques, they can help restore balance, relieve tension, and alleviate neck pain.

Workplace Ergonomics

Many individuals spend a significant portion of their day sitting at a desk, often in environments with poor ergonomic setups. Inadequate support for the neck and back, poorly positioned monitors, and improper chair and desk heights can all contribute to neck pain. Over time, these improper workplace ergonomics can generate excessive strain, leading to discomfort and stiffness in the neck area.

An osteopath can advise you on proper workplace ergonomics, such as optimal seat height, desk positioning, and monitor placement to minimize the strain on your neck. They may also suggest stretches or exercises that you can incorporate into your daily routine to reinforce good posture and alleviate neck pain.

Stress and Emotional Tension

It’s no secret that chronic stress and emotional tension can wreak havoc on our bodies. Stress often manifests physically, and the neck is a common area to experience the effects. Stress-induced neck pain can result in muscle tightness and knots that further exacerbate the discomfort.

Osteopaths understand the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and emotions. They can employ various manual techniques, including soft tissue manipulation and gentle joint mobilization, to address not only the physical symptoms but also the underlying emotional tension contributing to neck pain. By promoting relaxation and releasing muscular tension, osteopaths can provide relief from stress-related neck pain.

Trauma and Whiplash Injuries

Sudden trauma, such as car accidents or falls, can cause significant damage to the delicate structures of the neck. Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head is jerked forward and then forcefully snapped back, straining the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the neck.

If you’ve experienced trauma or suspect a whiplash injury, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Osteopaths can play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process by restoring proper alignment, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing. Through gentle manipulations and specialized techniques, they can help relieve pain, restore range of motion, and aid in the recovery of whiplash-related neck injuries.

Medical Conditions and Degenerative Changes

Sometimes, neck pain may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or degenerative changes in the spine. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, cervical disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and fibromyalgia can all cause chronic neck pain.

An osteopath can work in collaboration with your healthcare team to manage these conditions using a holistic approach. They focus on enhancing overall well-being by addressing the musculoskeletal components that contribute to your neck pain. Osteopathic treatment can help you optimize joint mobility, alleviate muscle tension, and reduce the impact of underlying medical conditions on your daily life.

Neck pain can be a debilitating condition that negatively affects your overall quality of life. Identifying the causes of neck pain is the first step towards effective treatment and relief. Osteopaths are skilled healthcare professionals who can provide personalized treatment plans catered to your specific needs. Whether your neck pain is a result of poor posture, workplace ergonomics, stress, trauma, or an underlying medical condition, an osteopath can help alleviate your discomfort and restore optimal neck function. Don’t let neck pain hold you back; consult an osteopath today for an accurate diagnosis and a customized treatment plan.

The Osteopaths at Eclipse Health and Osteopathy are all very experienced in assessing and treating neck pain. We offer techniques that range from extremely gentle and indirect to spinal adjustment. 

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