Whiplash-Associated Disorders (WAD)

Whiplash-Associated Disorders (WAD) are a common yet often misunderstood set of injuries that can have a lasting impact on daily life. Typically caused by a sudden acceleration-deceleration force, most frequently during motor vehicle accidents, whiplash can affect the neck, upper back, shoulders, and even neurological functions.

At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, our chiropractic and physiotherapy professionals specialise in assessing and managing the full spectrum of WAD to help you recover safely and fully.

What Is a Whiplash-Associated Disorder?

Whiplash-Associated Disorder is the term used to describe the range of symptoms that can result from a neck injury due to rapid back-and-forth movement. While commonly linked to car accidents, whiplash can also result from sports injuries, falls, or any high-impact trauma to the head and neck.

Common Symptoms Of WAD

Symptoms may appear immediately or several hours to days after the incident, and they can vary in severity:

Neck pain and stiffness
Headaches (often originating from the neck)
Shoulder and upper back pain
Reduced range of motion
Dizziness or vertigo
Tingling or numbness in the arms
Fatigue or difficulty concentrating

Without appropriate care, some individuals may experience chronic symptoms that persist for months or longer.

Causes And Mechanisms Of Injury

Whiplash typically occurs when the neck is suddenly forced backward and then forward, stretching the muscles, ligaments, and joints beyond their normal range. This can lead to:

Soft tissue damage
Cervical facet joint irritation
Disc injuries
Muscle strain or spasm
Nerve irritation

Assessment And Grading Of WAD

Whiplash injuries are often graded according to their severity:

Grade 0: No complaints or physical signs
Grade I: Neck pain with no physical signs
Grade II: Neck pain with musculoskeletal signs
Grade III: Neck pain with neurological signs
Grade IV: Neck complaints with fracture or dislocation

At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, our clinicians use thorough assessments—including case history, physical examination, and movement testing—to determine the grade and develop a suitable treatment plan.