INFORMATION ON WHIPLASH:-

Whiplash may be defined as injury to the neck that occurs as a result of a motor vehicle accident. The most common type of car accident which results in whiplash is the rear impact. The driver in the vehicle that gets hit from behind is at the greatest risk of injury.

CAUSES OF WHIPLASH:-

The consequence which leads to the development of whiplash are:-
1. Automobile accident.
2. Neck trauma.
3. Blows to the head from a falling object.
4. Shaking of a child.
5. Chronic strain involving the neck.

SYMPTOMS OF WHIPLASH:-

1. Neck pain with stiffness
2. Headaches
3. Pain in the shoulder or between the shoulder blades
4. Pain in lower back part of body.
5. Pain or numbness in the arm and/or hand
6. Dizziness
7. Ringing in the ears
8. Blurred vision.
9. Difficulty concentrating or remembering
10. Irritability.
11. Sleep disturbances.
12. Fatigue.
13. Abnormal sensations
14. Burning
15. Paresthesias

DIAGNOSIS OF WHIPLASH:-

Clinically in order to identify whiplash following test should be performed:-
1. X-ray.
2. MRI.
3. CT scan.
4. Physical examination including rapid movement of neck.

TREATMENT OF WHIPLASH:-

A subject suffering from whiplash can be treated with positive results by following below mentioned steps:-

1. Rest
2. Pain relief medications
3. Anti-inflammatory drugs
4. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
5. Antidepressants
6. Muscle relaxants
7. Neck immobilization
8. Cervical collar - usually for 2-3 weeks
9. Range of motion exercises
10. Physical therapy
11. Cervical traction
12. Application of heat on affected part.