Car accidents are traumatic events that can result in a range of injuries. One particularly common injury associated with rear-end collisions is whiplash. This condition develops when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward (or side-to-side), causing rapid flexion and extension of the neck beyond its normal range of motion.
While most people recover fully from whiplash, it can also cause long-term complications if not handled promptly and appropriately.
What are the signs and symptoms of whiplash?
Whiplash symptoms may not appear immediately, but they typically develop within 24 hours after an accident. Signs and symptoms of whiplash can include:
- Neck pain and stiffness: Pain and stiffness in the neck area are common symptoms of whiplash. The pain may worsen with movement.
- Reduced range of motion: Difficulty moving the neck and decreased ability to turn or tilt the head are indicative of whiplash.
- Headaches: Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull are a frequent symptom of whiplash and may persist for weeks or months.
- Tenderness or pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms: Whiplash can cause referred pain to surrounding areas of the neck, shoulders and upper back.
- Tingling or numbness: Some individuals may experience tingling or numbness in the arms or hands, indicating nerve involvement.
- Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or fatigued is common after sustaining whiplash.
- Dizziness or vertigo: Whiplash can disrupt the vestibular system, leading to sensations of dizziness or vertigo.
- Blurred vision: Vision problems such as blurred vision or difficulty focusing may occur due to the strain on neck muscles and nerves.
- Memory or concentration difficulties: Whiplash can sometimes cause cognitive symptoms such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or disrupted sleep patterns are often reported by individuals with whiplash.
It is advisable to get checked by a doctor promptly after a car accident. If you suffer whiplash injuries due to someone else’s negligence, you may want to seek legal guidance to better understand your options for compensation.