Whiplash
Whiplash
Whiplash (/ˈwɪpˌlæʃ/), also known as cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injury, is a type of neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip.
Etymology
The term "whiplash" was first used in 1928 to define an injury mechanism of sudden hyperextension followed by an immediate hyperflexion of the neck that results in damage to the muscles, ligaments and tendons - especially those that support the head.
Causes
Whiplash is commonly caused by rear-end car accidents. But whiplash can also result from sports accidents, physical abuse and other types of traumas, such as a fall. Whiplash is essentially a sprain or strain to the neck's soft tissues.
Symptoms
Symptoms of whiplash may be delayed for 24 hours or more after the initial trauma. However, people who experience whiplash may develop one or more of the following symptoms, usually within the first few days after the injury:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches, most commonly at the base of the skull
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
Treatment
Treatment for whiplash may include pain management, physical therapy, and supportive care. Pain management may include medications to reduce inflammation and pain. Physical therapy can include a range of treatments such as heat, ice, massage, and exercises to improve posture and strength.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Whiplash
- Wikipedia's article - Whiplash
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