Whiplash is a neck injury caused by intense back-and-forth motion in the neck. More often than not, whiplash occurs as a result of a rear-end collision, though it can also result from non-auto related injuries such as sports injuries or physical trauma.

Common Signs Of Whiplash

You may have whiplash if you have recently been in an accident and are experiencing chronic neck pain, muscle stiffness, and headaches or migraines. Fortunately, this condition, along with other injuries commonly associated with accidents and whiplash, can be addressed by consulting a doctor or physical therapist and forming a comprehensive treatment plan. In normal cases, doctors will recommend a combination of pain medication, exercise, and physical therapy. However, some injuries result in further complications that are more difficult to treat.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Common symptoms of whiplash usually manifest within 24 hours of the initial injury, though this may not always be the case. Symptoms include pain that worsens with movement, stiffness of the neck, limited mobility in the neck, pain in the shoulders and upper back, numbness in the arms, and general fatigue. Additionally, the afflicted could be experiencing blurred vision, difficulty sleeping, tinnitus, memory issues, depression, and more. This is why it is so important to see a doctor right away if you suspect you or a loved one have sustained whiplash.

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See A Doctor If…

If you notice any of the above symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. In these situations, getting to a doctor is about more than treating potential whiplash. You may have a broken bone or severe tissue damage that will require additional attention.

The Specifics

As mentioned above, whiplash results from the forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck. Whiplash can injure the spinal column, disks, muscles, nerves, and cause other neck tissues. It often results from auto accidents (specifically, rear-end collisions), assault or abuse such as punching or excessive shaking, and contact sports like football or hockey.

Special Circumstances

Whiplash usually subsides after a couple weeks, although more serious injuries can result in months or years of chronic pain. Because each person’s body and injuries are different, it is difficult to predict the lasting impacts of whiplash. However, chronic pain typically follows when the pain has spread to the shoulders and arms. Additionally, those who already have existing neck and back pain may experience additional complications.

If you or a loved one have sustained a whiplash injury, you may benefit from chiropractic treatment. The caring professionals at Veeva Clinic are ready to provide comprehensive, convenient care to help you on the road to recovery.