What is Whiplash?
A car accident can cause a variety of injuries. A common one you may hear about often is whiplash. But what exactly is whiplash and how does it occur?
Whiplash simply refers to neck strain. While it’s associated with car crashes, it can happen any time a blow causes your neck to jerk back and forth. This force tears the tendons and muscles in your neck, causing pain and stiffness. Athletes, particularly football players, are prone to whiplash.
If you have suffered neck pain following a car accident, you may have whiplash. Read on to learn more about this condition.
Neck pain and stiffness are the most obvious signs of whiplash. However, you may experience other symptoms as well, including the following:
- Pain when moving your neck
- Tenderness in the affected area
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
Less common symptoms include the following:
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Problems sleeping
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
These symptoms may indicate a concussion. Concussions sometimes occur with whiplash. Concussions can be serious and lead to further issues. Therefore, immediate medical treatment is necessary.
Whiplash may heal on its own. You can manage the pain by icing your neck for the first few days following the injury. Painkillers can help with pain and swelling. Your doctor may recommend the use of a neck brace to support your neck. These should not be used for an extended period of time, however.
Heat is also helpful after the swelling decreases. Consider a warm bath. Ultrasound, acupuncture, and massage may be beneficial as well.
While whiplash tends to heal after several weeks, some victims are not so lucky. They suffer complications that can cause the pain to persist for many months or even years. Those who have had whiplash in the past or have existing back and neck problems are more likely to suffer complications. Age is a factor as well, with the elderly more likely to suffer problems.
Should I See a Doctor for Whiplash?
If you have been involved in a car accident and experience neck pain, see a doctor right away. Even if you do not experience pain right away, it is still advisable to see a doctor. Whiplash may not present itself for several days after the accident. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your body will heal.
In addition, in order to bring a claim against the negligent party, it is important to show that you seek medical care soon after the crash. If you wait too long, your claim could be denied.
Contact a New York Car Accident Attorney Today
If you are involved in a car crash, you may suffer from injuries ranging from minor to severe. Some accidents cause permanent injuries and even death. The damages can exceed hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
If you suffered from whiplash or any other injury, seek legal help from New York car accident attorney Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. P.C. He advocates aggressively for car accident victims and will work to maximize your compensation. To learn more, call (212) 518-2095 or fill out the online form.
In over a decade of legal practice, Attorney Michael Redenburg began his career defending cases for the clients of insurance companies. Initially defending no-fault claims at a Long Island-based law firm, he then moved on to a Manhattan-based firm where he defended the clients of insurance carriers in an auto accident and premises liability matters.