Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden jerking motion, often from car accidents. Physical therapy is commonly used to treat whiplash and address related conditions. Here are the main conditions treated with physical therapy after a whiplash injury:
Neck Pain
Physical therapy helps relieve neck pain by improving mobility, reducing muscle tension, and strengthening the muscles in the neck and upper back.
Muscle Strain
Whiplash can cause strains in the neck muscles. Therapy focuses on stretching, strengthening, and improving flexibility to promote healing.
Reduced Range of Motion
Whiplash often leads to stiffness and reduced mobility. Physical therapists use techniques like stretches and joint mobilizations to restore range of motion.
Headaches
Tension headaches from muscle tightness in the neck and upper back are common after whiplash. Physical therapy can help alleviate these headaches through exercises and manual therapy.
Postural Dysfunction
Whiplash can affect posture. Physical therapy helps improve posture and alignment to reduce strain on the neck and upper back.
Neurological Symptoms
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands can occur due to nerve compression from whiplash. Physical therapy techniques can help relieve nerve compression and strengthen the affected areas.
Chronic Pain
In cases where pain persists long-term (chronic pain), physical therapy can provide strategies to manage pain, prevent further injury, and improve overall function.