What causes whiplash?

Whiplash is an injury that affects the muscles and tendons as well as the articulating capsular ligaments and intervertebral discs of the neck following a sudden, accelerated movement of the neck both forwards and backward.  It is commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents, although anytime there is a sudden force against the neck whiplash can occur.

Symptoms of Whiplash

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Limited range of motion
• Headaches
• Shoulder/arm pain, pins and needles, and numbness

Who does it affect?

Whiplash can affect anyone at any age.

How is Whiplash it diagnosed?

Dr Hardas will begin with a patient history to determine existing conditions, how the neck injury came about, and ongoing signs and symptoms.  A physical examination of the neck including observation, palpation, and range of motion, will also be performed.  If there is suspected nerve damage he will then test reflexes, sensation and muscle power.  If there are potential neurological issues or fractures suspected, he may refer his patients for X-rays, MRIs, bone scans, or CT scans.

Treatment

Although treatment for whiplash will vary from patient to patient, some common treatment options that Dr Hardas specialises in include specific spinal adjusting techniques according to Activator Methods, stimulation or relaxation of the muscles, stabilisation exercises, and advice on lifestyle or ergonomic changes.

Prognosis

With the proper treatment and pain management that we provide, patients can typically expect a full recovery.

Dr George Hardas, a university-trained Chiropractor, with a 5-year degree and an additional completion of 10 years of clinical research at the Orthopedic Research Institute at St George Hospital, operates at Spinal Care, a Chiropractic clinic specialising in the diagnosing and treating of musculoskeletal conditions emphasising his work in spinal adjustment/ manipulation and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Although treatment for multiple conditions can be acknowledged in Dr Hardas’ works, a common focus can be drawn to the issue of whiplash. Whiplash is an injury that affects an individual’s neck often ensuing a sudden and forceful strength, which prompts an accelerated movement of the neck and head both backwards and forwards.

Dr Hardas will begin with a patient history to determine existing conditions, how the neck injury came about and the ongoing signs and symptoms, followed by a physical examination of the neck, including; observation, palpation and range of motion. If nerve damage is suggested thorough examination, he will then test reflexes, sensation and muscle power. These will assist in determining treatment. He may also, if potential neurological issues or fractures are suspected, refer his patients for X-rays, MRIs, Bone scans or CT scans or to appropriate medical specialists.

Although Chiropractic treatment for whiplash will vary from patient to patient, some common treatment options in which Dr Hardas specialises here at Spinal Care include; spinal manipulation, the stimulation or relaxation of the muscles, stabilisation activities and exercises, or advice to implement necessary lifestyle as well as ergonomic changes.