Whiplash-Associated Disorder in Mona Vale
Whiplash can occur when the head and neck are rapidly accelerated and decelerated, most commonly during a motor vehicle accident.
At Helix Recovery in Mona Vale, we assess your symptoms, movement and neurological function to determine how the injury is affecting you and develop an appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plan.
What is Whiplash-Associated Disorder?
Whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) describes the range of symptoms that can develop following a rapid acceleration-deceleration movement of the neck.
Although commonly associated with rear-end motor vehicle accidents, similar injuries can occur during sport, falls or other sudden impacts.
Symptoms can involve the joints, muscles and other structures around the neck and may develop immediately or during the hours following an injury. Most people recover well, although symptoms can persist for longer in some cases.
Common Symptoms
Neck pain and stiffness
Reduced or painful neck movement
Headaches
Shoulder or upper-back pain
Muscle soreness or sensitivity
Dizziness in some people
Arm pain, tingling or numbness in some cases
How We Assess Whiplash-Associated Disorder
Symptoms following a whiplash injury can involve several different structures, and their severity can vary considerably between individuals.
Your assessment may include neck movement, joint and muscle testing, neurological screening and examination of the shoulder and upper back where relevant.
The aim is to assess the severity of your injury, identify factors contributing to your symptoms and determine whether imaging or further medical assessment may be required.
How We Treat Whiplash-Associated Disorder
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Neck mobility exercises
Neck and upper-back strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
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Recovery varies between individuals. Many people improve substantially over the following weeks, while some experience symptoms for longer depending on the nature of the injury and other contributing factors.
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For many uncomplicated whiplash injuries, gradually returning to comfortable movement and normal activity is encouraged rather than prolonged immobilisation. Your assessment can help determine an appropriate starting point.
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Not everyone requires imaging. The mechanism of injury, symptoms and examination findings help determine whether X-ray, CT, MRI or further medical assessment is appropriate.
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Yes. Headaches are common following whiplash and may be associated with irritation or sensitivity of structures within and around the cervical spine.
Common Questions
Still Experiencing Neck Pain After Whiplash?
If neck pain, stiffness or headaches are persisting after a whiplash injury, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing and develop an appropriate management plan.