Whiplash Basics – Breaking the Rules

Why is whiplash is unlike any other injury.

For example, with a sprained ankle, you can usually expect the following scenario, even with a moderate injury:

1. The onset of pain and stiffness with 24 hours.
2. Progressive improvement after the first week.
3. A very limited number of symptoms
4. Near-total resolution of symptoms with 6-8 weeks.

None of the above rules apply in the case of a typical whiplash. Instead, we have the following guidelines:

1. Pain and stiffness may not develop for weeks.
2. Recovery is highly variable, and its course is difficult to predict for even a day in the future.
3. A wide variety of symptoms are possible
4. 45% of whiplash victims have significant symptoms several years after the injury.

In short, whiplash breaks all the standard rules.

But one rule stands. It is extremely important to get checked out as soon as possible after an injury. Failure to do so can significantly impede a person’s recovery and may allow irrevocable pathology to occur.  Do not settle for a cursory five-minute exam. A thorough exam is needed to check out the wide range of injuries that can occur from a whiplash. Remember, a Doctor of Chiropractic is the soft tissue injury specialist.

©Whiplash Basics – Breaking the Rules from the booklet “Whiplash” by John M. Mooney, DC