Whiplash - Symptoms And Treatment

If you think you have suffered whiplash, you need to know what the symptoms are and what treatment you can seek

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What Causes Whiplash?

Whiplash happens when the tendons and ligaments of the neck are forced beyond their usual range of movement. This occurs when the head is suddenly thrown away from the body, stretching the neck and damaging it in the process.

More often than not, whiplash will be suffered by people involved in low-speed road traffic collisions. For example, if someone's vehicle is hit from behind, their head will be thrown backwards and forwards at a rapid pace. This sudden jolt will cause the muscles, ligaments and tendons to hyperextend, instigating a whiplash injury.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms Of Whiplash?

When the neck undergoes a forceful 'whipping' movement of this kind, the effects of whiplash will soon start to develop. However, often symptoms will not begin to present until several hours after the actual incident of trauma. Once the initial signs start to materialise, they will gradually get worse over the course of the next 24 hours.

The symptoms of acute whiplash include:-

* Neck pain;

* Stiffness and reduced movement in the neck;

* Headaches;

* Inflammation around the neck;

* Lower back pain;

* Dizziness;

* Tiredness.

Sometimes whiplash can also cause:-

* Blurred vision;

* Difficulty swallowing;

* Pins and needles in the hands;

* Memory loss;

* Poor concentration.

These symptoms should only last a short while, with most whiplash patient's making a full recovery within three months. If the symptoms continue for more than six months, then the injury is called chronic whiplash. In such cases, more extensive treatment may be needed.

How Is Whiplash Treated?

Whiplash is known as a self-limiting condition, meaning it normally gets better without the need treatment. However, it is important to keep the neck mobile. While whiplash used to be treated with a neck brace, it is now considered that gentle neck exercises are more beneficial than rest or inaction. Painkillers will ease the discomfort, while applying ice to the neck will help reduce the inflammation. A packet of peas wrapped in a tea towel is particularly ideal.

Patients with chronic whiplash may be advised to seek treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor, while stronger painkillers may need to be prescribed. There are also other self-care measures that can be taken, such as maintaining a good posture, doing yoga and remaining positive.

Compensation For Whiplash Injuries.

If you are suffering from whiplash because of an accident that was not your fault, you might be entitled to compensation. To find out more about making a personal injury claim, contact a solicitor without delay.

Copyright (c) 2011 Nicholas Jervis

by: Nicholas Jervis

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