Whether you are a driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian, whiplash is a risk in any accident. You may expect soreness, try to walk it off and call that good enough. However, any injury may be a risk for deeper tissue damage, and failing to promptly get the help you need may make things worse.
Taking the right precautions can help you recover and may also provide documentation in case you pursue a damages case relevant to your accident.
Sources of whiplash
According to Spine Universe, whiplash involves damage to the soft tissues along your neck. Treatments like bracing and medication, combined with physical therapy all work to restore your proper function and movement.
Whiplash occurs in any situation from basic falls off your bicycle to rear-end car accidents. Serious collisions may leave you with worse injuries than whiplash, but that does not mean caring for that soft tissue damage is off the table.
Physical therapy for whiplash
Some physical therapy treatments for whiplash involve passive and active methods. Passive treatments include deep tissue massages, ultrasounds and temperature therapies. Active treatments include sessions with a physical therapist and exercises you learn to help improve your strength and range of motion.
Tips for avoiding whiplash
The best solution to whiplash is not having it in the first place. Make sure to pay your best attention while driving and adhere to safe bicycling tips on the roads. Unfortunately, your vigilance may still not be enough. In the case of accidents and injuries, it is important to understand your injuries, their costs and how you might recover both physically and financially.
