Auto accidents are a common occurrence on the roads, and they can result in a variety of injuries. One of the most common auto injuries sustained is whiplash.
Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are abruptly and forcefully jerked forward and then backward, causing damage to the soft tissues in the neck.
Here’s what you need to know about the risks and symptoms of whiplash:
Causes of Whiplash
- Rear-End Collisions: The most common cause of whiplash is rear-end collisions. When a vehicle is hit from behind, the impact can cause the head and neck to snap back and forth, resulting in whiplash.
- High-Speed Collisions: Whiplash can also occur in high-speed collisions. The greater the force of the impact, the more likely it is that whiplash will occur.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: If you have a pre-existing neck injury or condition, such as arthritis, you may be at a higher risk for developing whiplash in an auto accident.
Symptoms of Whiplash
- Neck Pain and Stiffness: The most common symptom of whiplash is neck pain and stiffness. You may also experience tenderness and difficulty moving your neck.
- Headaches: Headaches are another common symptom of whiplash. They can be mild or severe and may be accompanied by dizziness or nausea.
- Shoulder Pain: Whiplash can also cause shoulder pain, as the force of the impact can affect the muscles and tissues in the shoulder area.
- Back Pain: Back pain is another common symptom of whiplash. The force of the impact can cause damage to the muscles and tissues in the back, resulting in pain and discomfort.
- Tingling and Numbness: Whiplash can also cause tingling and numbness in the arms and hands. This occurs when the nerves in the neck are compressed or damaged.
- Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of whiplash. The pain and discomfort associated with the injury can cause you to feel tired and run down.
If you have been in an auto accident and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Whiplash can be a serious injury and can lead to long-term pain and discomfort if left untreated. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your condition and develop a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms.
Treatment for Whiplash
- Rest and Ice: Rest and ice can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with whiplash. It is important to avoid any activities that may worsen your symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles in your neck and back. Your physical therapist may also use techniques such as massage and stretching to help alleviate your symptoms.
- Chiropractic adjustments: Adjustments entails identifying the neck joints that are misaligned and positioning them back into their proper place. That can be done by gently moving the affected joint into the direction in which it is constrained. In some cases, the chiropractor can apply swift but gentle thrust in the desired direction and in others a slow mobilizing movement.
Whiplash is a common injury sustained in auto accidents. The risks of whiplash include rear-end collisions, high-speed collisions, and pre-existing conditions. The symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, shoulder pain, back pain, tingling and numbness, and fatigue.
If you have been in an auto accident and are experiencing these symptoms call New Hampshire Regenerative Center at (603) 945-1945 and let us help you.