Management of whiplash-related pain after a motor vehicle accident.
What is whiplash-related pain?
Our beautiful country’s large size means we often depend on cars, trucks, and motorbikes in daily life. This reliance, combined with occasional merging challenges, can lead to accidents.
Some people may experience symptoms related to a road traffic injury, which can be referred to as ‘whiplash-related pain’. Symptoms can range from mild to more severe discomfort, including neck pain, headaches, nerve pain, and dizziness. Although symptoms after whiplash can be unpleasant, most people notice significant improvement within a few days, and many recover within a few weeks.
Most MRI scans show only minor changes, often related to ageing. These findings account for the symptoms in approximately 10% of people. That means that for the remaining 90%, scan results don't account for their experiences [1]. Interestingly, some individuals with scan abnormalities feel no pain at all, while others without visible changes may be in pain. This illustrates that scan results often don't directly influence treatment decisions.
Some individuals with whiplash may experience stress related to the accident. Symptoms may include hypervigilant behaviours, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, disturbed sleep, or fatigue. Research has shown that stress, anxiety and depression can make your neck pain feel worse. Learning how to identify and manage stressful situations can help you cope with and manage your pain. It is important to recognise the potential impact this could have on your physical, emotional, and social health, as it may lead to feelings of isolation and difficulty in coping. However, you're not alone, and it's not just in your head!
In fact, Australia spends close to one billion dollars on the management of whiplash-related pain every year [2]. New treatment is available, and research is consistently improving the management of these complex injuries.
Treatment and management:
At Back In Motion Balcatta, Sam has partnered with the University of Queensland to deliver the best possible care after a road traffic accident. There is no one-size-fits-all, and treatment must be tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Treatment involves combining traditional manual therapy, motor control and strength training, with real-life pain education and pain management techniques. This can help you understand your pain and provide strategies to reduce sensitivity when participating in your daily life.
We work collaboratively with you, your doctor, and other healthcare providers to help reduce your specific symptoms and concerns, improve your quality of life and help you reach your goals.
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment to have your whiplash-related pain assessed, please contact the clinic on 08 9908 9100 or visit the website here.
Click here if you would like to learn more about the university project.
References:
- My Pain Hub. (n.d.). Imaging. https://mypainhub.com/resources/neck-pain/imaging
- Rebbeck, T., Papic, C., & Sterling, M. (2024). New clinical recommendations for whiplash. Australian Physiotherapy Association. https://australian.physio