Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the muscles in your neck suffer a strain because of a rapid movement backward and then forward. The sudden motion causes your neck’s tendons and ligaments to stretch and tear, resulting in whiplash.
Whiplash results when the muscles and ligament in your neck extend beyond their typical range of motion. Symptoms might not appear for a while, so it’s important to pay attention to any physical changes for a few days following any accident.
Symptoms
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches, at the base of the head
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
Causes
- Car accidents (most common)
- Being punched or shaken
- Contact sport
- Falls in which the head jerks backward
- Blows to the head with a heavy object
Risk Factors
- Participating in sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, or ballet dancing
- Sudden increase in length or intensity of exercise
- Exercising or maneuvering on slippery or uneven ground
- Wearing improper shoes that do not provide adequate support and stability
- Previous sprain and strains may increase your risk of repeat injuries and general instability
- Poor physical condition
- Excess weight
Whiplash Specialties
- #1 in my book! This team replaced my right knee, and are now in the prep stages to replace the left one. One stop shopping as far as diagnosis, actual surgery at Lancaster General, along with rehab. The surgery team is great, and the rehab team very easy to work with and very thorough.
- I could not have asked for better service, promptness and satisfaction with the treatment ordered. Thank you very much!
- All staff were very friendly and professional. Dr. Hyatt was thorough, did not rush through the appointment and answered all of our questions.
- Great experience at Orthopedic Urgent Care at OAL Lancaster. Friendly and efficient receptionist, assistant and x-ray tech. Scott, the PA-C was phenomenal. Very personable, caring and knowledgeable. Diagnosed, gave thorough explanations and treated my condition promptly and effectively.
- Universal welcoming attitude, listened to my wants and needs, efficient without hurrying, prompt exit processing.