Whiplash: The importance of accurate diagnosis

Car accidents tend to happen suddenly, but what happens next tends to be the bigger whirlwind – what do you do? How bad are you hurt? Who is this lawyer that is calling you? How do you handle it? Big or small, automotive accidents can have a major impact on your body and whiplash could be one of those complications.

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissue, such as muscles and ligaments, of the neck. Whiplash is due to the rapid and abnormal back and forth movement usually occurring from a car accident, physical abuse, or a sports injury. While a lot of the times, whiplash doesn’t become a serious condition, it could have further complications.

Symptoms of Whiplash

According to the Mayo Clinic, those who have whiplash may develop some of the following symptoms:

• Neck Pain
• Hard time making any neck movements
• Shoulder, back, or arm pain and numbness
• Tension headaches
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Memory Loss
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

*There are other symptoms not described in this list that are also associated with whiplash, everyone’s body is different and therefore the symptoms could be different.

The Importance of Diagnosis

Neck pain after any traumatic event could refer to a serious injury such as bone fracture and sprains. It is important that every patient is properly diagnosed. Usually a physician will perform neurological and physical examinations as well as conduct proper imaging of the area through the use of CT Scans or X-Rays.

Whiplash symptoms usually last one or two months but some may experience complications such as joint damage and ligament tear stemming from whiplash. Some of these complications may last up to two years to heal and some may have life-altering effects.

If you, or someone you know, has been in a car accident or you think may have some of the symptoms of whiplash, call Today to schedule an appointment at 210-342-2777 Same-day appointments are available!