Whiplash What Is It, How To Deal With It?

Whiplash, or whiplash, happens quite often. It can be due to a traffic or work accident, or a bad movement. In these cases there is a stretch or tear of the soft tissues of the neck that affects muscles and tendons, and even ligaments.

It is painful and disabling, but we must know how to deal with it to regain normalcy in our lives as soon as possible.

1. Causes of whiplash or sprain

Whiplash occurs as a result of  a sudden, sudden and very intense movement by which there is an excessive flexion or extension of the neck.

The spinal column protects the delicate spinal cord, and keeps the weight of the head and upper extremities towards the feet. Despite performing such important roles, you can be very vulnerable.

Carrying weight, stress, strains, and bad movements can affect our spine, which is why sprains and whipping are so common. The chances of injury increase in the following situations:

• Traffic accidents.
• Work accidents.
• Maintain a bad posture frequently at the computer.
• Sleeping in a position that relaxes the neck, by using a pillow that is too high or too firm.
• Carrying a heavy suitcase or other object on one side of the body …

2. Symptoms of whiplash

The most suitable cervical collar to treat whiplash is usually the soft one. It serves to rest the head and reduce pressure on the neck. The doctor will recommend how long to use it, since in excess it could weaken the neck muscles.

Medicines and natural remedies

Typically, we are prescribed pain relievers to relieve pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Consult with your doctor if there are any contraindications to complement this treatment with natural remedies that, in no case, will be substitutes for the indications of the specialists.

If there is no contraindication, you can use the following plants. Ginger can help relieve neck pain, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

The cold and the heat

Hot-cold therapy is very effective in relieving pain and inflammation, and relaxing tense or injured muscles. For this, it is recommended to apply warm compresses to the neck once the swelling has disappeared.

Applying ice or a cold pack to the neck for 10 minutes 4 times a day will also allow us to reduce pain and inflammation. Remember to wrap the ice with a towel or cloth; never put it directly on your skin.

Other treatments for whiplash

• Massages by a good physiotherapist are very effective, as they help increase blood circulation and decrease tension. Also, the professional will notice if there are any problems with the tendons.
• A positive psychological attitude. These injuries are painful and take months to resolve. Sadness, worry, fear or discouragement will block us even more.

• Mentalize yourself for a long rehab. Normal life is not always restored when the collar is removed. Rehabilitation is a long process where our muscles and ligaments must regain their place, their strength and their strength. You must have courage and patience, and take an active role in your rehabilitation.
• Don’t be afraid of movement. Do small exercises to regain the stability of your head-neck-back axis. Gentle movements, relaxation exercises…. All this will help you little by little in your recovery. Ask your doctor which ones are the most suitable.