WhiplashNeck Injury
Comprehensive treatment for whiplash injuries with evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden acceleration-deceleration forces that cause the head to move rapidly back and forth, like the cracking of a whip. This motion can damage the soft tissues of the neck.
Most commonly occurring in motor vehicle accidents, whiplash can also result from sports injuries, physical abuse, or other trauma. Early appropriate treatment is crucial for optimal recovery.
Mild (Grade I)
Minor soft tissue injury with minimal symptomsSymptoms:
- •Neck stiffness
- •Mild pain
- •No neurological symptoms
Treatment:
Rest, gentle movement, over-the-counter pain relief
Prognosis:
Excellent, 2-4 weeks recovery
Moderate (Grade II)
Moderate soft tissue injury with functional limitationsSymptoms:
- •Significant neck pain
- •Reduced range of motion
- •Muscle spasm
Treatment:
Physical therapy, medications, activity modification
Prognosis:
Good, 4-8 weeks recovery
Severe (Grade III)
Severe injury with neurological symptomsSymptoms:
- •Severe pain
- •Neurological deficits
- •Possible disc injury
Treatment:
Intensive therapy, advanced imaging, specialist consultation
Prognosis:
Variable, 8-12+ weeks recovery
Acute Phase
0-72 hoursPain control and inflammation reduction
Early Mobilization
3 days - 2 weeksRestore gentle movement and prevent stiffness
Active Recovery
2-8 weeksStrengthen neck muscles and improve function
Early Mobilization
Days 3-14, multiple times dailyGentle Neck Rotation
Slow, controlled head turns side to side
Neck Side Bending
Gentle ear to shoulder movements
Chin Tucks
Gentle chin retraction exercises
Strengthening
Week 2-8, dailyIsometric Neck Exercises
Gentle resistance in all directions
Shoulder Blade Squeezes
Retract shoulder blades together
Upper Trap Stretch
Stretch tight neck and shoulder muscles
Functional Training
Week 4-8, dailyDynamic Neck Movements
Progressive multi-directional movements
Postural Strengthening
Deep neck flexor strengthening
Proprioceptive Training
Balance and coordination exercises
Accident-Related
Individual
Severity Factors
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