WHIPLASH

PHYSIO MOSMAN: www.fitasaphys...
Technically called “Whiplash Associated Disorder” (or WAD), whiplash is the most common injury from motor vehicle accidents.
46% of all claims made against drivers’ green slip insurance are for whiplash injuries.
Symptoms of whiplash may include:
Pain (in the head, neck, back, shoulders or arms)
Stiffness
Pins & needles
Numbness
Dizziness
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Headache
Memory loss
Altered hearing
Jaw pain
Difficulty swallowing
Depending on your symptoms it may be necessary to see a GP or physio to assess the severity of whiplash.
Your healthcare professional will decide if you need any investigations (ie, scans or xrays - but you most likely won't), ask you a range of questions, and may get you to fill out a questionnaire.
Whiplash is graded 0-IV based on the severity of symptoms (Gd IV being the worst).
Gd 0: No complaint about the neck. No physical sign(s).
Gd I: Complaint of neck pain, stiffness or tenderness only. No physical sign(s).
Gd II: Neck complaint AND musculoskeletal sign(s). Musculoskeletal signs include decreased range of movement and point tenderness.
Gd III: Neck complaint AND neurological sign(s). Neurological signs include decreased or absent tendon reflexes, weakness and sensory deficits.
Gd IV: Neck complaint AND fracture or dislocation.
Research shows a range of outcomes for whiplash. Some people have a fast, full recovery, while others suffer prolonged, debilitating symptoms. Often it is social and financial variables that influence the progress of recovery. A strong predictor of outcome is the patient’s own opinion of the severity of the car crash, and their expectation of recovery.
There is a lot of research into the best thing to do for whiplash. It can be summarised into some very simple advice:
Reassurance that a range of symptoms are normal
It’s crucial to stay active
“Protecting” the neck by limiting movement will slow recovery
Simple analgesia (such as regular paracetamol) helps promote normal movement
Range of movement exercises provided by your GP or physio are beneficial
And there are some options that are proven to be detrimental:
Decreased activity
Collars
Muscle relaxants
Injections
Electromagnetic treatment
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