How Long Does Whiplash Last?

Whiplash is an injury to the neck that commonly results from auto accidents. At its most basic, whiplash is technically a type of sprain. However, the effects of this injury can vary widely based on its severity. If you are recovering from whiplash or another auto injury, seeing a physical therapist is one way to strengthen your neck and reduce pain. At Motus Integrative Health, our team will work with you to identify the cause of your pain and develop an exercise plan that works to correct the issue. 

Severity of Whiplash

In order to understand how long it will take to recover from whiplash, it’s important to consider how severe your injury actually is. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the Quebec Classification of Whiplash-Associated Disorders is one way to understand the degree of symptoms that a person is experiencing after an accident. This scale ranges from Grade 0 (in which no symptoms are experienced) to Grade 4 (a major injury involving neurological symptoms like numbness, headaches, or vision problems). Lower grades of whiplash tend to be short-lived, however some people can develop chronic symptoms associated with their injury. 

Treating Injuries After an Auto Accident

If you have recently been in an auto accident, you should know which steps to take to begin recovering. Because not all injuries are immediately apparent, you should see a doctor if you have any concerns that something is wrong. Seeing a doctor can help you understand the full extent of your injuries and begin exploring treatment options such as physical therapy or chiropractic care.

For many cases of whiplash, working with a physical therapist can be an effective way to relieve pain and strengthen the injured area. Safely exercising after an injury can help restore function. Our physical therapists at Motus Integrative Health will work with you one-on-one to find an exercise plan that works for you and your circumstances, aiming to help you along the recovery process after an accident.

Preventing Whiplash

Car accidents are common, but understanding how to protect yourself may be able to reduce the likelihood that you will develop whiplash after a crash. Wear your seatbelt, and make sure that the headrest in your car is properly positioned behind your head. When searching for a new car, it’s also a good idea to research its safety features and crash test ratings. 

Scheduling an Appointment With a Physical Therapist

If you have recently experienced whiplash or another auto injury, you may find it helpful to work with a physical therapist for pain relief. The amount of time that it will take to recover from whiplash will ultimately depend on the severity of the injury. To learn more about how a physical therapist can help with whiplash recovery, contact Motus Integrative Health today. Our team is happy to discuss your treatment options with you.