Classic Indicators and Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Despite its prevalence, many people underestimate the severity of whiplash, assuming that it’s a minor injury that will heal on its own.
Understanding the classic indicators of whiplash, symptoms, and recovery timelines can help injured individuals better navigate the aftermath of a car accident. With proper treatment and legal support, you can recover physically and financially. A Nashville personal injury lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve to cover healthcare expenses and other related costs.
What is Whiplash and Why is It Common in Car Accidents?
A type of harm that occurs when the head is suddenly jolted back and forth, whiplash strains the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck. This type of injury is particularly common in auto collisions, where the force of impact causes the driver’s or passenger’s neck to whip back and forth. Even at low speeds, the impact can cause enough force to damage the soft tissues in the neck.
Symptoms of whiplash vary in intensity and may not appear immediately after the accident. It’s important to recognize these signs early, as they may worsen over time without proper treatment.
- Neck stiffness. This is the hallmark symptom of whiplash. The neck may feel sore, stiff, or tender, particularly when trying to turn or move the head.
- Dull or sharp pain, often at the base of the skull, that may extend to the forehead or temples.
- Upper back pain. Muscle strains and stiffness can extend beyond the neck, affecting the shoulders and upper back as well.
- Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded due to the strain on the neck muscles or the nervous system.
- Numbness or in the arm. In severe cases, whiplash can affect the nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands.
- Jaw pain. Some individuals experience discomfort or stiffness in the jaw area, which can be caused by the same muscle strain affecting the neck.
- Blurred vision. The injury may also affect vision, leading to temporary blurriness or difficulty focusing.
- Whiplash can cause exhaustion, as the body tries to heal from the injury and cope with constant pain and discomfort.
When dealing with whiplash, medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses can quickly add up. Fortunately, individuals who suffer whiplash due to a car accident may be eligible for compensation through injury claims.
How Long Will It Take to Recover?
The recovery timeline for whiplash depends on the severity of the injury. In many cases, mild to moderate whiplash may improve within a few weeks with rest, ice or heat therapy, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain relief. In cases with persistent pain or nerve involvement, it can take 6 months or longer for recovery.
Was your body jerked forward and backward during a traffic incident? Don’t let the expense of whiplash treatments upend your household budget, contact the injury lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC to learn about your options for recovery. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
