Whiplash: We’ve got your shoulders, neck, back and body covered

When you think of whiplash, what comes to mind? Most people think you only suffer from this painful condition if you’ve been in a car crash, but this isn’t the case.

Despite rear-end car collisions being one of the top causes of this debilitating affliction, whiplash can occur following any forceful movements of the head and rapid back and forth movements of the neck. Actions which can damage the surrounding ligaments and tendons.

Symptoms of whiplash

Along with car crashes, whiplash can occur from sports accidents, or simple accidents such as falling off a ladder. Symptoms of whiplash usually develops within 24 hours or more of the trauma taking place. Although it can take longer.

Either way, sufferers of whiplash will know this painful complication can affect the whole body.

The most common symptoms of whiplash include:

Neck pain
Stiffness
Reduced neck movements
Muscle tenderness
Headaches
Pain and muscle spasms in the shoulders and arms
Lower back pain
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Trouble swallowing
Fatigue

In some cases, whiplash symptoms can become chronic, leading to anxiety and depression.

How can whiplash be treated?

London-based Osteopath, Robin Kiashek, who has more than 25 years’ experience has helped many clients with their recovery from this condition.

He said: “In many cases, whiplash sufferers might benefit from using a pillow to support their neck while lying in bed or sitting. I would also suggest applying ice (wrapped in a wet tea towel) over the area in question for 5 to 10 minutes every three hours for the first couple of days after the incident.”

We’ve spoken before about the power of ice therapy, especially in cases where there is a need to reduce the inflammation in our body. Just like in the case of whiplash.

But whiplash can also be treated through osteopathy.

Treating whiplash through osteopathy

Osteopathy works in many brilliant ways. Through the use of manual therapy, such as massage and stretching, Osteopathy can work to treat musculoskeletal disorders in the muscles, ligaments, joints, nerves, cartilage, tendons and the general skeletal system.

“In the case of whiplash,” Robin says, “we may also work to realign the joints and tendons in your neck to alleviate pressure and get some movement back into both your neck and head, along with your shoulders and any other areas of your body affected by this problem.”

And a 2012 clinical trial agrees. Along with the physical aspects, Osteopathy can also have beneficial effects for those suffering with the mental aspects of late whiplash syndrome. The trial concluded: “Osteopathy lives up to its claim of being a complementary modality in the treatment regimen of this condition.”

Allied therapies

But there’s more. As well as being a qualified Osteopath, Robin also offers a range of allied therapies that can work to restore harmony in your body and promote healing. This includes:

Acupuncture – this has been proven to improve circulation, which in turn helps to promote natural healing and wellbeing
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) – This has been used in the field of osteopathy for some time. Typically for the treatment of pain and the healing of wounds and musculoskeletal conditions
Naturopathy – Robin is also a qualified naturopath, which means he can equip your body with the tools it needs to not only heal itself, but also to prevent illness from ever developing

Get in touch

If you are suffering from whiplash, do get in touch. Robin can put together a tailored treatment plan for you, discussing your individual needs and requirements to help get your whole body get back on track.