Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in a car accident. It occurs when the impact of the collision causes your head and neck to jerk suddenly back and forth. If this injury is not treated correctly, it can lead to lingering pain and discomfort. Fortunately, physical therapy in Cheyenne WY has proven to be effective in helping car accident victims who are suffering from whiplash. How is it treated? Here are some of the ways:

Deep Tissue Massages

Whiplash victims may begin to notice tension in the soft tissues located in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can cause a great deal of discomfort. To alleviate this pain, physical therapists will often perform deep tissue massages, which put pressure on the affected soft tissues and result in the release of built up tension. Learn about the 4 benefits of a deep tissue massage.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound can also be performed on painful areas caused by whiplash. What does an ultrasound do? This treatment will send sound waves deep into the soft tissues, creating a small amount of heat that will promote blood flow and reduce swelling and inflammation. Even though heat is used in this treatment, you should not feel any pain or discomfort. Ultrasound treatment is typically used as soon as possible following the accident, as this is when swelling is at its peak.

Gentle Exercises

Once your physical therapist thinks you are ready, you will begin incorporating gentle exercises into your treatment plan. These exercises aren’t designed to make you sweat or lose weight, but rather improve mobility and increase strength and flexibility. Your physical therapist will create a custom exercise plan based on your injuries, and then work through them with you, correcting your posture and giving you helpful pointers every step of the way. Over time, you will begin to notice a huge improvement in your condition thanks to these beneficial physical therapy exercises.

Hot and Cold Treatments

Physical therapists will often use hot and cold therapy on whiplash victims as well. An ice pack can be applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation and treat pain. It is recommended that ice be used as soon as possible following the injury. On the other hand, heat is used to increase blood circulation to promote healing and prevent the tight, compressed muscles from having spasms. If your physical therapist performs hot and cold treatments on you, ask a lot of questions and pay close attention to how long each treatment is applied. Then, you can treat yourself with an ice pack and heating pad at home any time you are experiencing pain outside of the office.

Contact North Platte Physical Therapy to learn more about how we can help you recover from whiplash after a car accident. Our staff is praised throughout the Wyoming and Nebraska areas for our commitment to our clients. We can fulfill comprehensive physical therapy services, and would be happy to customize a treatment plan for your personal needs.