subject: Know The Signs And Symptoms Of Whiplash Injuries [print this page] Whiplash is a non-medical term for neck injuries that are commonly sustained in automobile accidents. When whiplash occurs, the head is jerked back and forth due to the sudden impact of a car accident. Though usually not fatal, the more serious the automobile accident, the more severe the whiplash injuries. Knowing the signs and symptoms of whiplash injuries can help auto accident victims seek immediate medical attention to prevent exacerbating the injury. Here, I provide information about the most common symptoms of whiplash.
What causes whiplash injuries? In auto accidents, the vehicle stops instantly in a high-impact collision between the car and another object or vehicle, but the passengers continue to move forward because of the laws of inertia. The body quickly decelerates, whipping the head back and forth. This will result in tearing of the neck ligament, most especially the anterior longitudinal ligament. Whiplash can also result in spinal fractures, which may require surgery to heal properly. Some auto accident victims experience psychological whiplash, meaning they complain of whiplash injuries when their necks are undamaged.
It is important to be aware of the many symptoms suffered by auto accident victims with whiplash injuries. Common symptoms include:
Pain and swelling of the neck
Inability to move the body or the neck
Muscles spasms
Back, arm and shoulder pain
Sensory disturbance, such as a feeling of pins and needles in the affected area.
Symptoms of whiplash injuries can be present immediately after the accident, but may not manifest for days or weeks later. That is why it is essential that the victim see a doctor immediately after the accident, to diagnose and treat whiplash injuries and prevent permanent disability from occurring. There are two common methods of treatment for whiplash injuries: professional treatment and home remedy. For severe cases, a doctor will order the patient to wear cervical brace to prevent movement of the neck and prescribe pain relievers, a session with a physical therapist, and a follow-up checkup. If the injuries are mild, a doctor will likely send the patient home with instructions to rest, massage the neck, place an ice pack on the affected area, and take over-the-counter pain medications.
If you have sustained whiplash injuries in an automobile accident in Texas, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced attorney to discuss your case. In Texas, the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm has been representing auto accident injury victims for 37 years. Call the firm at (800) 888-8808 for a free consultation or visit http://www.brunklaw.com to learn more about the firm.
