Whiplash, also known as a neck strain or sprain, is treatable and most symptoms resolve completely after treatment.
- Soft cervical collar to support the head and relieve pressure on the ligaments
- 2-3 weeks
- Cold therapy
- 15-20 minutes at a time, 3x/day
- First 2 or 3 days after the injury occurs
- Reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Heat therapy to relieve muscle tension and pain
- Loosen cramped muscles
- Pain medications such as analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Muscle relaxants to ease spasms
- Range of motion exercises and physical therapy
- Massaging of tender areas
If symptoms continue or worsen, further X-rays and other diagnostic testing may be necessary to see if the patient suffered a more severe injury.
Severe extension injuries like whiplash can damage the intervertebral discs. If this occurs, surgical repair of the discs may become necessary.
Who qualifies for surgery?
Patients who damage their intervertebral discs.
Recovery
- Symptoms usually subside in 2 to 4 weeks, however, more severe cases may take longer to completely heal.
Outcomes
- Complete resolution of symptoms after treatment
