WHIPLASH trauma and chiropractic:

Injuries to the neck caused by a sudden movement of the head backwards and forwards or sideways, are referred to as “whiplash”. This is commonly associated with road traffic accident especially rear impact collisions [1,2] but can also occur in sporting injuries such as rugby and boxing.

So what exactly happens to the neck during a whiplash injury? Much research has gone into this and it has been found that the neck moves through a characteristic S shaped curve whereby typically, extension and compression occurs in the lower parts of the neck and flexion and compression occurs in the upper part of the neck.

Due to the complex nature of a whiplash injury, multiple sites within the neck can be injured including the ligaments, discs, muscles, joints, nerve, capsules, blood vessels and bones. From a clinical perspective, the main goal is to make the appropriate diagnosis so that the treatment can be tailored specifically to the presenting patient.

The subsequent clinical syndrome of “whiplash” is dominated by head, neck and mid back pain and is often associated with a variety of poorly explained symptoms such as dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and blurred vision. These symptoms are often reported hours or days after the actual injury

At our Bodymotion Clinic, which is located near Bank tube, we frequently encounter patients who suffer with whiplash injuries. In the early stages of care, most treatment, advice and reassurance is directed at easing inflammation and restoring range of motion in the neck through mobilisation, manipulation, traction and postural advice. In the latter stages of care, we focus on progressive rehabilitation which involves reeducating and strengthening the injured neck musculature. 

Manipulation for whiplash associated pain has been recommended in a report by the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and its Associated Disorders published in Spine in 2008 (Guzman et al, 2008). Additional research to support the package of care offered by chiropractors was published in Spine 1995 (Spitzer et al 1995)

If you are currently suffering with whiplash and have any questions, please contact one of our chiropractors who will be happy to help.

1) Amevo B et al : Instantaneous axes of rotation of the typical cervical motion segments: A study in normal volunteers . Clin Biomecahnics 6:111-117, 1991

2) Aniss AM. Et al Changes in perceived heaviness and motor commands produced by cutaneous reflexes in man. J physiol 397: 113-126