Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/76076
Many patients report pain in their jaw or face, as well. An acceleration-deceleration injury is usually sustained during a rear-end collision but can occur during any motor vehicle accident. Even low-speed crashes can cause significant symptoms. Chronic problems can include: • Neck pain • Muscle tension • Persistent headache • Dizziness and balance problems • Pain in the upper back and arm(s) • Neurological symptoms TREATMENT TIMING Because of the varied symptoms associated with whiplash, there is not yet a comprehensive social understanding of what a patient may go through while recovering, which may expose them to the antiquated social stigma of "faking it." Also, because of the variable length of time it takes to recover, malingering is often assumed wrongly. This fact, however, is clear: Early intervention is the key to a quick and complete recovery. The length of time that W.A.D. symptoms persist in patients differs based on the extent of the injuries, the type and timeliness of interventions, and psychosocial factors. Unfortunately, conversion into chronic symptoms is common. Treatment in the acute phase can be critical. Modalities such as joint mobilization and exercise therapy specific to the unique muscular disorders that accompany whiplash have been proven quite effective. Physical therapy also can address subtle oculomotor issues— issues dealing with eye function—that recently have been associated with W.A.D. In addition, post-concussion symptoms can be part of the spectrum of warning signs " associated with whiplash. Psychosocial intervention and comprehensive rehabilitative programs have shown to improve return-to-work rates. Physical therapy has proven to be a large part of the overall whiplash recovery process. The amount of time a patient will need to return to their before-injury status, however, cannot be predicted with confidence. Even so, research shows that early identification and intervention decrease the likelihood of the initial injury becoming a chronic condition. MAXIMUM IMPROVEMENT Patients who embrace an active approach in their physical therapy will more likely achieve complete recovery. In some cases, patients with depressive moods or other negative perceptions, including post-traumatic stress disorders, may be at a higher risk for chronic- ity. Appropriate physical therapy intervention can provide the physical and psychosocial support needed to prevent this and allow clients to reach pre-injury status more quickly. Early patient education can help create the appropriate support perception for recovery. Patient progress should be measured with evidence-based outcomes. The goal is to reach maximal medical improvement, a technical term used for the point at which a given intervention no longer measurably improves a patient's health. When patients reach pre-injury status, they should feel like they have regained the same strength and quality of life they had before the accident. Physical therapists have many ways to get patients to this state and should support treatment and recovery, which are not the same. Moreover, here at the WAC, we have all of the tools members need to recover fully from accidents. When it comes to life after an automobile collision, there is no room for shortcuts. Physical therapy can prove critical to recovery. It also fits perfectly into a holistic approach that can include acupuncture, Rolfing, naturopathy and nutritional counseling. Ultimately, your well-being depends on your own commitment to getting better and staying that way. The importance of good help, however, cannot be overstated. Because of the varied symptoms associated with whiplash, there is not yet a comprehensive social understanding of what a patient may go through while recovering, which may expose them to the antiquated social stigma of 'faking it.'" Stuart Eivers is the Lead Physical Therapist with MTI Physical Therapy at the WAC. Reach him at seivers@wac.net or via the Wellness Center at 206.839.4780. AUGUST 2012 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | 25