Whiplash

Whiplash is a neck injury that may cause chronic neck pain if left untreated. At Palm Beach Pain Institute in Delray Beach, Florida, board-certified pain medicine and physical medicine and rehabilitation physician Marcie Merson, MD, provides comprehensive care for whiplash, offering treatments that heal the damage for long-term pain relief. Call the office or schedule a consultation using the online booking feature today.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the forceful and sudden back-and-forth movement of the head. The strong and unexpected movement strains the neck muscles and may damage the bones, ligaments, or nerves in the cervical spine.

The injury occurs from any sudden acceleration or deceleration accident, causing the neck to move too fast or beyond its normal range of motion. 

Whiplash injuries are common in automobile accidents and while playing sports.

What does whiplash feel like?

Whiplash makes your neck feel achy and stiff. However, symptoms can vary in type and severity based on the degree and force of the movement.

Other symptoms that you may have whiplash include:

• Shoulder pain
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Arm or hand pain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Muscle weakness

Some symptoms occur right away, while others may not appear until hours or days after the injury. 

When should I see pain management for whiplash?

You should schedule a pain management consultation at Palm Beach Pain Institute if your whiplash symptoms are severe or last longer than expected. 

Whiplash is a serious injury, and you need a medical evaluation right away to rule out damage to the structures of the neck and get treatment. If you continue to have pain after your initial evaluation, Dr. Merson can help. 

At your first appointment, she asks detailed questions about the injury, initial and current symptoms, and treatments. She performs a physical and neurological exam and may request imaging tests to confirm or rule out neck damage.

What are some treatments for whiplash?

Treatment for whiplash focuses on healing the injury and minimizing symptoms. Dr. Merson customizes your treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms and damage.

Whiplash treatment may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Muscle relaxants
• Physical therapy
• Osteopathic manual therapy (OMT)
• Acupuncture
• Posture-strengthening exercises
• Nerve blocks
• Radiofrequency nerve ablation

Most people recover from whiplash within a few days or weeks. However, it can take several weeks or months with more severe injuries.

Whiplash can lead to chronic pain and inflammation without proper care. Call Palm Beach Pain Institute or book an appointment online today for expert whiplash management.