Whiplash Injuries
Evidence-based treatment for whiplash-associated disorders
Understanding Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, similar to the cracking of a whip. It most commonly occurs during rear-end motor vehicle collisions but can also result from sports accidents or other trauma. The sudden acceleration-deceleration forces cause the neck to extend beyond its normal range of motion, potentially damaging muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, nerves, and other neck structures.
Most people with whiplash recover within a few weeks to months with conservative treatment, but approximately 50% develop chronic symptoms lasting more than six months, and 10-15% experience severe, long-term disability. Early, appropriate management is important to prevent chronic disability.
Common Causes
Motor Vehicle Collisions
Rear-end impacts most common, but side-impact and frontal collisions can also cause whiplash
Sports Injuries
Contact sports, particularly football, hockey, or rugby
Physical Assault
Shaking or striking causing rapid neck movement
Falls
Particularly falls where the head is suddenly jerked
Amusement Park Rides
High-speed rides with sudden stops or direction changes
Repetitive Strain
Less common, but repeated minor trauma can cause similar symptoms
Symptoms
Neck pain and stiffness, often worsening 24-48 hours after injury
Loss of range of motion in neck
Headaches starting at base of skull (cervicogenic)
Tenderness or pain in shoulders, upper back, or arms
Numbness or tingling in arms or hands
Dizziness or vertigo
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
Sleep disturbances, irritability, and mood changes
Advanced Treatment Options
Cervical Facet Joint Injections
Diagnostic and therapeutic injections to identify and treat facet-mediated pain
Radiofrequency Ablation
For confirmed facet joint pain, providing 6-12 months of relief
Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
For radicular symptoms from disc injury or nerve root irritation
Trigger Point Injections
Targeting myofascial pain in neck and shoulder muscles
Prolotherapy or PRP
Regenerative injections to strengthen damaged ligaments
Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation
Combining physical therapy, CBT, and medication management for chronic WAD
Neuromodulation
Occipital nerve stimulation for severe, refractory chronic whiplash pain
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