How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Whiplash

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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It's very common to leave an automobile accident with whiplash, even if you weren't moving that fast before the crash. Whiplash is caused by the sudden intense jerking of the head from front to back, not by the speed you were going before impact. With whiplash, you can have impaired mobility and an overall stiffening of your neck. Using physical therapy to recover may be best only after the acute stages have passed. Follow these steps to find out how to use physical therapy wisely.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Promote Healing of Whiplash Through Physical Therapy

Step 1

Use stretching exercises to relieve pain of the upper neck.
Step 2

Start by sitting upright in a chair with your fingertips on your chin.
Step 3

Tuck in your chin. Slowly move the back of your head forward.
Step 4

Feel the stretch at the base of the skull. Continue to move the head downward until the movement is met with resistance.
Step 5

Hold the position for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat the procedure 5 times.
Step 6

Learn more about physical therapy at the "American Physical Therapy Association" Web site (see Resources below).

Identify the Symptoms of Whiplash

Step 1

Be prepared to experience headaches after whiplash occurs. Even slight changes in the vertebrae can create headache pain.
Step 2

Understand that whiplash can cause a nerve to be blocked or pinched by pressure from the vertebrae. A pinched nerve is very painful. Physical therapy or chiropractic visits may be a way to help nerve pain.
Step 3

Trust your instincts if you're in an accident. If you feel pain in your neck, recognize the warning signs and schedule a medical appointment for evaluation.

Look at Alternative Solutions to Reduce Whiplash Pain

Step 1

Talk with your doctor about a cervical collar. Although the collar may not be the most flattering accessory, its helps keep the neck and spinal column in a set position to promote healing.
Step 2

Consider trying static magnet therapy to reduce pain associated with whiplash.
Step 3

Use hot or cold therapy to help recover from neck injury. Decreasing the swollen muscle by applying either ice or heat to the neck may also add pain relief as it takes away your stiffness.