If you are the passenger or driver of an automobile and another driver hits you from behind, it’s likely you will suffer signs of whiplash. Whiplash is severe tearing and straining of the neck muscles and nerves due to the rapid back-and-forth jerking of your neck. However, since whiplash symptoms may not emerge for several days, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible for a complete examination. Treating whiplash successfully means starting treatment before symptoms become severe. If you had an accident and need a physical therapist in Parkville MD, visit us at Comprehensive Spine and Sports Center in Essex.
Recognizing Whiplash Symptoms
In most cases, people who suffer from whiplash were involved in a minor accident and felt fine immediately afterwards. The pain of whiplash can sneak up on you. If you start experiencing two or more of the following symptoms, you may have the onset of whiplash:
- Neck pain and stiffness that gradually worsens
- Neck pain accompanied by a stinging or burning sensation that spreads over the shoulder and neck areas
- Recurring headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Sore throat
- Difficulty with concentration and memory
- Poor sleep quality
To accurately diagnose whiplash, a medical professional will ask you for a detailed description of your symptoms. When did you first notice them? How quickly have they progressed? Did you feel anything after the accident?
How is Whiplash Treated?
Physical therapy treatments are based on the results of the initial assessment. Physical therapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, including whiplash, back pain, sports-related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and recovering from surgery.
Depending on the type, severity and location of your problem, your physical therapist will develop a personalized plan that involves one or more the following treatments:
- Therapeutic massage techniques
- Applications of heat/cold compresses
- Exercise programs specifically designed to improve muscle strength and mobility
- Spine and joint mobilization and manipulation to relieve inflammation, stiffness and pain
- Muscle re-education
- Ultrasound
- Traction for low back and neck pain
Your physical therapist may also provide nutritional advice and recommend aids like walkers, canes, or wheelchairs meant to reduce the risk of recurrence of injuries or to avoid worsening of an existing injury.
Finding a Physical Therapist in Parkville MD
Contact Comprehensive Spine and Sports Center to schedule an appointment if you were involved in a car accident. Preventive treatment for whiplash is essential for avoiding severe pain and reduced quality of life. Dr. Cohen and his staff look forward to helping you feel better again.
