Whiplash (CAD Syndrome-Cervical Acceleration/Deceleration)
Neck strain is often called whiplash. Whiplash occurs when a person’s head moves backward and then forward suddenly with great force. The sudden force stretches and tears the muscles and tendons in your neck. This injury is most common following a rear-end collision. It can also result from sports injuries, physical abuse, or amusement park rides.
Whiplash is thought of as a relatively mild condition, but it can cause long-term pain and discomfort. Your symptoms might not appear for awhile, so it is important to pay attention to any physical changes for a few days following any accident.
Causes of whiplash
- Car accidents
- Cycling accidents
- Falls in which the head violently jerks backward
- Physical abuse, such as being punched or shaken
- Contact sports such as football, boxing, and karate
- Horseback riding
- Blows to the head with a heavy object
A blow that causes neck strain can sometimes cause a concussion too. Since concussions can be serious, you need to see a doctor right away.
Symptoms of whiplash
- Headaches, specifically at the base of the skull
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Constant weariness
- Chronic pain in the neck, shoulders or head
If you have a headache that worsens or persists, have weakness or trouble talking, or confused, dizzy, nauseous, or feel excessively sleepy, you should seek emergency medical care.
In diagnosing whiplash, your doctor will normally ask you questions regarding your injury such as how it occurred, where you feel the pain and if it’s dull, shooting or sharp. A physical exam may be done to check your range of motion and look for areas of tenderness.
Tests such as CT scans and/or MRI will allow your doctor to assess any damage or inflammation in the soft tissues, spinal cord, or nerves. Other imaging studies may be helpful such as PET scan (positron emission tomography) or DTI (diffuse tensor imaging), especially when there may be a brain injury.
Treatment for whiplash
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol or aspirin
- Prescription painkillers and muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy
- Applying ice or heat
- Practicing simple exercises to built strength and flexibility to your neck
- A foam collar to keep your neck stable
- Chiropractic care
- Messages
- Electronic nerve stimulation
- Acupuncture
Some people with whiplash do experience chronic pain or headaches for years following their accident. However, very few people have any long-term complications from whiplash and usually recover anywhere from a few days to several weeks.