What Is Whiplash? How to Treat Whiplash
Whiplash refers to a number of neck injuries that happen when the neck experiences rapid movement back and forth. Whenever affected by this injury, you need to learn how to treat whiplash.
Most of the time, people associate this with car accidents when one car is rear-ended by another. But, other causes are possible as well, with examples ranging from headbanging to falls and physical abuse.
Causes of Whiplash
Neck injuries and whiplash are often associated with car accidents involving rear-end contact. If front vehicle occupants are not prepared, whiplash is common. However, whiplash can also appear with other incidents, like:
- Truck and car accidents without a rear-end impact
- Intentional assault leading to head trauma
- Contact sports, including hockey, soccer, and football
- Repetitive work stress injuries
- Snowboarding accidents
- Skiing accidents
- Child abuse
- Slip and fall incidents
Various whiplash causes listed by others are incorrect. Countless misconceptions appear due to everyone saying what they think is correct. For instance, many believe whiplash appears just in accidents at high speeds. In reality, it can even happen at 20 miles per hour.
Numerous factors impact whiplash incidents. This includes low impact and low-speed collisions. Whiplash causes are really complex. It is always important to work with personal injury attorneys and go to the doctor. Medical documents are mandatory.
Another really common misconception you need to know is that whiplash involves only soft tissue and is minor. In reality, whiplash can lead to years of medical problems.
Common Whiplash Symptoms
Generally speaking, people who experience whiplash will suffer from symptoms. These include pain, stiffness, and even headaches until they recover in a few months' time. However, there are those who will suffer chronic complications as a result of neck injuries.
As stated, common symptoms of whiplash include pain, stiffness, and headaches. However, there are other symptoms. Some examples range from fatigue and numbness of the arms to dizziness and a reduction in the full range of motion for the neck.
People who experience these symptoms after some kind of trauma should make sure to see a doctor as soon as possible. This is because there are other conditions that share similar symptoms. Thus, said individuals need to know whether they need treatment for whiplash or something else altogether.
This is particularly important because there are neck injuries with worse consequences. These more severe injuries cause serious problems if left untreated.
How to Treat Whiplash
The treatment for whiplash has two intended purposes. First, is to help people manage the symptoms of their whiplash. Second, is to help people restore the full range of motion to their necks.
There are a number of pain relief methods brought up when deciding how to treat whiplash.
For example, rest and relaxation can help with the worst of the initial symptoms. However, too much rest and relaxation in later periods may hinder the recovery process.
Apply both ice and heat to the neck for a period of 15 minutes no more than 6 times on a daily basis can help relieve the pain.
However, some people might prefer pharmaceutical methods. This means over the counter pain medication or prescription painkillers. Even muscle relaxants help people suffering from particular symptoms of whiplash.
Treatment for Whiplash with Simple Exercises
Likewise, there are also a number of exercises considered useful when it comes to deciding how to treat whiplash. These exercises will help to restore the full range of motion of the neck.
However, people who are suffering from whiplash need to use them with care and consideration. This is because carelessness can cause further problems.
As a result, it is best for them to speak with their doctors before going ahead with the exercises. Not least because their doctors should be able to provide them with useful information about the most useful exercises. As well as the best ways to prepare for them.
Regardless, common exercises range from rotating the neck in both directions to rolling the shoulders, which are simple in nature but nonetheless useful for restoring a person back to their previous capabilities when performed with proper diligence.
Getting the Help You Need
There are two things that are vital when you are affected by whiplash injuries. They are:
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Always Seek Medical Attention
You are tempted to do many things but it is vital to first talk to a doctor. Neck injuries are serious and can lead to countless possible health problems. Always seek the medical attention you need. This is especially the case if you are faced with a car accident.
Whenever a doctor tells you to do something, you need to do it! This includes all tests and much more than that. For instance, go to the emergency room when the doctor says so! Then, get all the documentation you need to prove you suffered injuries.
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Get Help from a Personal Injury Attorney
When injured by someone else, you need to file a personal injury claim. This can be quite difficult with whiplash injuries since symptoms take time to appear.
Always keep detailed records of the accident. This includes what happened, the medical treatment you went through, absolutely all expenses and symptoms. Also, never file an injury claim without the help of a professional. This is the personal injury attorney you hire.
