Whiplash is a common injury most often sustained during car accidents. It can occur even during a minor fender bender at low speeds. The effects of whiplash can manifest hours or even days later, so being aware of the symptoms can help you seek appropriate medical attention after an accident. This guide goes over a few helpful facts about this condition.

A Brief Guide to Whiplash

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury due to sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, similar to the cracking of a whip. It involves the muscles, discs, nerves, and tendons in your neck. A rear-end car accident is the most common cause, but whiplash can also occur from contact sports or falling. 

What are the symptoms?

There is a range of symptoms for whiplash, depending on the severity. The most common are:

• Pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the neck
• Pain or tenderness in the shoulders, upper back, or arms
• Numbness or tingling in the arms
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Ringing ears
• Irritability

How is whiplash treated?

A doctor will recommend a treatment plan tailored to the severity of your injury and your specific circumstances, such as age, medical history, and overall health. Treatment typically includes rest, ice and heat applications, pain medication, and muscle relaxants. If you have a severe case of whiplash, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist, who can guide you through exercises to strengthen muscles and restore normal movement. 

Who pays for the treatment?

Ideally, the insurance company of the person who is at fault in the car accident will pay for your whiplash treatment. Get a thorough medical examination as soon as possible after the accident so you can be aware of the extent of your injury and the required treatment before accepting any settlement offers from the insurance adjuster.

If you've been injured in a car accident, trust Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law to help you get the compensation you deserve. They have provided quality legal counsel and representation to clients in Roanoke, VA, and surrounding areas since 1979. These attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience practicing personal injury law, and they bring expertise and knowledge to a range of matters, including car accidents, wrongful death, and product liability. Call (540) 342-2000 to schedule a free initial consultation, or learn more about the firm on their website.