Why Whiplash Should Never Be Ignored

Whiplash, while frequently viewed as a minor injury, can actually be a major pain in the neck. Most commonly the result of a car accident, usually a "fender bender" with rear impact, whiplash happens when the ligaments and muscles are hyperextended, moving beyond their normal range of motion. Unfortunately, the injury doesn't always immediately result in pain or the neck look injured. The tendons and ligaments may be torn or stretched, but shock of having been in an accident and the type of injury itself frequently delays the onset of pain.

Instead, the pain will typically show up within the next day or two. This means many people refuse medical treatment immediately after an accident, making the erroneous assumption they are fine or that it's just a little normal soreness that will be better with an aspirin and rest. Here's a look at the complications that can result from underestimating the potential damage of whiplash and why you should always seek medical attention and legal representation after an accident.

It May Be More Than Just Your Neck

Whiplash is when your head is violently thrown forward and then snaps back. While your brain is protected from the fluid that surrounds it and your skull, this jarring action can also cause a concussion. A concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury, but the symptoms can be severe and life-altering. Even if you didn't lose consciousness, your brain may have still been injured from the impact. Memory problems, inability to concentrate or remember new information, blurred vision, nausea, dizziness, and intense headaches are not uncommon.

Whiplash Could Mean Suffering From Symptoms A Year Later 

Several years ago, Danish researchers conducted a study on whiplash. They looked at 141 patients who were involved in a car accident and subsequently presented within 48 hours to their emergency room, complaining of head and neck pain. None of the participants had lost consciousness or reported any memory difficulties, nor did they have any previous history of spinal problems or severe headaches.

The great majority of patients were considerably better within the month following the injury, however, those almost 8eight percent of those who had reduced movement in their neck immediately after the accident were still adversely affected one year later. Fascinatingly, the study also accounted for those patients who were involved in a lawsuit stemming from the accident, finding no correlation whatsoever between their ongoing pain and complications.

Between the symptoms of whiplash and a concussion, not to mention any other unknown injuries, such as missed internal or spinal injuries often attributed to "seat belt syndrome," it is best for anyone who finds themselves in an automobile accident to seek medical attention. What is thought of as a minor fender bender could end up causing a major life disruption. Daily activities of living and working can be very difficult if one is in constant pain and can't move their neck. Whiplash can also lead to other neurological symptoms such as a pinched nerve, weakness in the extremities, and even bowel and bladder control difficulties. To best protect your rights, be sure to consult a law office like The Accident Law Center.


Share