woman wearing neckbrace lying on a sofa against a white background

When someone is involved in auto accident, they are put at great risk for injury. One of the most common injuries caused by auto accidents is whiplash, also called neck sprain or neck strain.

Whiplash, a common neck injury, occurs when the head suddenly moves backward and then forward, like the way a whip is cracked (hence the name whiplash). The result is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck caused when neck muscles and ligaments are forced beyond their normal range of motion.

A common culprit for whiplash is a rear-end collision. If you experience this neck injury, you should seek medical attention. You’ll need a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to ensure proper recovery. Remember, even a low-speed collision can cause whiplash so it’s important to know the symptoms of whiplash and how to treat your injury.

Whiplash Symptoms

Symptoms of whiplash usually appear within 24 hours of the injury and most commonly include neck pain and stiffness, tender neck and shoulders, and headaches (usually at the base of the skill).

Whiplash victims may also experience additional symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision and fatigue, pins and needles (paraesthesia) in the hands and arms, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, ringing in the ears, sleep disturbances, irritability, and others.

It’s important to discuss all of your symptoms with your doctor to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if you are experiencing severe pain.

Whiplash Treatment

Whiplash injuries can range from mild to severe, which will largely determine how the injury is treated and how your physical therapy goes. Mild whiplash injuries may heal on their own, or with the help of some basic home treatments (discussed below).

However, a severe case of whiplash can cause symptoms that last for six or more months. This is called chronic whiplash (also called late whiplash syndrome). Chronic whiplash will require more intensive treatment to manage pain and improve mobility. Common whiplash treatments include:

Mobilization

If you have a whiplash injury, you should keep your neck mobile. Try doing gentle neck exercise. This may be a bit painful, but keeping your neck moving in the early stage of your injury will speed healing. Keeping your neck still can prolong your injury, so neck braces are not recommended.

Painkillers and Anti-Inflammatories

Over-the-counter painkillers can help relieve and reduce pain. If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe something stronger.

You can also take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow label instructions, read warnings for any medications you take, and consult with your doctor if you have any questions.

Physiotherapy

If whiplash symptoms and neck pain lasts for several weeks, you may benefit from physiotherapy, such as massage and manipulation to loosen tight muscles, as well as standard physical therapy.

Self Care

As an extra measure to prevent symptoms and moderate whiplash pain from worsening, try these simple things you can do at home to reduce pain as you treat whiplash.

Practice Good Posture

Maintain a good, upright posture. Keep your back straight when sitting, standing and walking, and adjust your chair and computer screen if you spend long hours at a desk. You can also try controlled exercises like yoga to improve your posture.

Use a Supportive Pillow

You may find some relief from a firm and supportive pillow for sleep to help temporarily ease neck pain and treat whiplash. However, you should not use more than one pillow.  

Have You Suffered a Whiplash Injury?

If you think you may have a whiplash injury caused by auto accident, call an experienced auto accident attorney at the Lowman Law Firm for a free consultation. We understand the serious nature of a whiplash injury and will fight for you to the compensation you deserve. There are no fees or costs unless we are successful. Call now!