What is Whiplash?
A whiplash injury occurs when there is a hyperextension (over- extension) injury
to the neck, often the result of being struck from behind, as in a car accident.
The hyperextension is caused by the victim’s body initially being pushed or
accelerated forward, and due to its weight, the head remains stationary
momentarily, effectively making it swing backwards and upwards. As this happens,
some muscles and ligaments may be stretched or torn. As a reflex action to this,
these neck muscles contract in an effort to bring the head forward again. This,
in turn, can cause overcompensation resulting in the head recoiling violently
forward (hyperflexion), stretching and tearing more muscles and ligaments.
It can be difficult to diagnose whiplash because x rays and other imaging
methods are not always successful in revealing changes in bone structure. Also,
whiplash may produce symptoms that are not clearly related to the original
whiplash injury as organs can be affected by nerve damage or reduced blood
supply. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, physical examination,
and neurological studies to determine whether the spine has been injured.
Who Is Affected by Whiplash?
Both sexes, and all ages.
What Are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
- Pain or stiffness in the neck, jaw, shoulders, or arms.
- Numbness or pain in the arm or hand.
- Lower back pain.
- Headaches.
- Dizziness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Blurred vision.
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Irritablity.
- Depression.
N.B. Depression and vision problems are rare symptoms of this condition.
Allopathic Treatment Options
Medication, physiotherapy, and supportive measures are used to treat whiplash.
Where symptoms are severe, the patient may need to wear a padded collar until
the pain diminishes.
When pressure on the root of the nerve causes loss of strength or sensation in a
hand or arm, a cervical traction apparatus may be used.
Complementary Treatment Options
Shiatsu has been found to be extremely beneficial in the treatment of whiplash,
usually bringing about a promt, positive response. Shiatsu creates a
feeling of wellbeing and the receiver usually experiences it as deeply relaxing.
Shiatsu practitioners can work with conditions of both acute and chronic
natures.
Pro-Holistic provides Shiatsu,
Healing Chi Kung therapy, on-site massage, Stress Mangement courses, and Stress Mangement workshops. We also provide tuition in Chi Kung,
Tai Chi, Neijia,
and self defence.