Common Conditions

Were you in an Accident and Suffering from Whiplash in Mississauga

Whiplash is a common injury condition that causes neck pain. However, it is mostly associated with rear impact car accidents. Whiplash occurs when sudden acceleration and then deceleration causes rapid, unrestrained back and forth movement of your head and neck. Oftentimes whiplash is ignored or mistreated which can lead to further pain and issues in the neck.

At European Massage and Physiotherapy Center, we offer treatment for whiplash in Mississauga. Our goal is to properly treat whiplash as well as educate our patients on the dangers of ignoring whiplash injuries. Through early detection, exercise, and treatment, our physiotherapists can help you toward a rapid recovery.

Whiplash Symptoms

When you experience whiplash, symptoms may include a range of different pain, including:
  • Pain that reduces range of motion or tightens the neck
  • Pain when rocking your head from side to side, backwards or forwards
  • Pain or stiffness when trying to look over your shoulder
  • Headaches at the base of your skull that move towards the forehead
  • Shoulder pain
  • Dizziness
  • Jaw pain
  • Arm pain
  • Back pain
Given the range of symptoms and pain that can occur as a result of whiplash, it’s important to seek out professional advice from your doctor or therapist. A professional can diagnose your condition and offer sound treatment plans.

Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Whiplash

Whiplash symptoms might not manifest right away after the initial injury. Some people recover quickly after minor accidents and don’t develop any chronic symptoms. However, some can experience issues even years after the incident. Treatment will depend on the type of symptoms you experience and may include:

Ice packs

Swelling and pain can be reduced by applying an ice pack to your neck for about 15 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 to 3 days after the injury. Remember to wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to prevent the direct cold from hurting your skin.

Massage

Massage can help relieve pain, help blood circulation, and promote overall well-being.

Painkillers

You may be prescribed to take pain medication like ibuprofen or naproxen. This will help reduce pain and swelling in your neck. Be sure to check with your doctor before taking them with other medicines.

Neck brace or collar

A neck brace or collar can provide support to your neck for a short amount of time. Long-term use is not recommended as it can cause your neck muscles to weaken.

Preventing whiplash is difficult when caused by an accident, but some things you can do to reduce your risk of experiencing whiplash are:

  • Practicing strengthening exercise on your neck muscles especially if you have had neck strain in the past
  • Taking the time to stretch and exercise your neck after sitting in the same position all day

Book an Appointment with European Massage and Physiotherapy Center

To learn more about how European Massage and Physiotherapy Center treats whiplash, contact us. You can book a free consultation.