Diagnosing Whiplash

Diagnosis is usually based on how the injury occurred, physical examination and the symptoms given by the patient.

X-Ray’s are only taken at the time of the injury if it is suspected that there is a fracture or dislocation of the cervical vertebrae. Disc height and bone spurs will also show up but damage to the soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons and muscles will not.

If symptoms continue for longer than 12 weeks or are very painful or debilitating, the cause may be investigated further using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan or Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan. The MRI Scan is able to visualise the soft tissues and is usually only carried out if there is a suspicion of disc injury, disc herniation, or that there may be nerve or spinal cord compression. If an MRI Scan is done it is usual for an x-ray to be taken so that the bones can also be examined for damage.

The CT or CAT Scan shows detailed images of any structure within the body including organs, muscles, fat and bones.

If a trapped nerve is suspected in a patient suffering arm pain, electromyography may be used to test the condition of nerves and muscles.

Whiplash Symptoms

While whiplash symptoms are usually temporary, lasting from a few days to a couple of weeks they can, in some cases, continue for a very long time.

The severity of the symptoms can vary but neck pain and headache are consistently reported following whiplash injury. Pain across the shoulders and pins and needles down the arms are also common symptoms.

Whiplash victims may experience other symptoms that include dizziness, disturbed vision, ringing in the ears or tinnitus and almost 40% of whiplash victims report lower back pain. Some people describe feelings of tearfulness, temporary loss of memory, poor concentration and irritability and a few experience problems with swallowing or speech.

Neck Pain

Following whiplash injury neck pain is felt in the form of a dull and aching nature around the back of the neck. Movement of the neck increases the pain and often makes it sharper and more severe. Stiffness in the neck muscles and a decrease in mobility of the neck are usually coupled with the pain.

The neck pain will often spread down the shoulders to the upper back, between the shoulder blades.

Headache

After neck pain, this is the next most common symptom experienced following whiplash injury. The site of the headache tends to be at the back of the neck and it can continue for some time after the accident.

Low Back Pain

Although around 50% of whiplash sufferers complain of lower back pain it tends to improve more quickly than the neck pain.

Dizziness

Almost 50% of whiplash victims experience dizziness, sometimes for up to a week.

Disturbed Vision

In around 10% of whiplash cases blurred vision or difficulty focusing is reported but this usually disappears within a week.

Poor Concentration and Memory Loss

Few people suffering whiplash mention that their memory suffered after the accident or that they experienced difficulty concentrating when questioned about their general symptoms. However, if asked directly, some acknowledge that they did, in fact, have problems.

Treating Whiplash

There is no specific treatment for whiplash that is generally accepted amongst medical professionals. However, symptoms can be relieved by:-

• The application of ice packs as soon as possible after the injury to help reduce inflammation. Ice packs should never be placed directly onto the skin but should be wrapped in a towel or cloth. Frozen peas make ideal ice packs as they mold around the area.
• Taking painkillers will assist by reducing the inflammation and easing the pain.
• Initially, you may need to rest but it is a good idea to start gently exercising the neck as soon as you are able. Continue with your normal routine where possible and gradually increase the range of neck movement.
• It is a good idea to get a good pillow to support your head when sleeping.
• Your GP may refer you for a course of physiotherapy.
• There are a number of complementary treatments such as acupuncture, reflexology and massage etc. that may help relieve your symptoms and do not require you to be referred by your GP.
• If the injury is the result of a no fault accident it may be possible to make a claim for compensation in which case the other side will be expected to pay for any treatments required to promote full recovery.

Long-Term Dangers of Whiplash Injury

Whiplash is not life threatening but the pain can become chronic.

Whiplash Syndrome

In a minority of whiplash cases people develop what is known as whiplash syndrome. This causes them to suffer continuous headaches and pain, restricted mobility in the back of the neck, tingling down the arms and fingers and lumbar pains. Other problems reported are disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue and reduced libido. Treatment of whiplash syndrome tends to be more difficult to treat than straightforward whiplash.