Whiplash injury is one of the most common injuries to the neck and upper spine. It results from the sudden movement of the head either forward, backward or sideways, and the supporting muscles, ligaments, and discs of the neck and upper back are often damaged in the process. All of these soft tissues are important in supporting the vertebra of your neck and help to stabilize the spine and protect delicate nerves.
In a car accident, the neck is often subjected to rapid and violent motion (whiplash). The delicate ligaments of your spine may be stretched and torn from the dramatic forces. A whiplash injury often results in chronic pain and disability, but symptoms may not immediately appear. This is especially true at the scene of a car accident, where you are anxious and filled with adrenaline, which is your body’s natural fight or flight response to a sudden unexpected trauma.
Symptoms of whiplash include:
- Neck pain
- Headache
- Lower back pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Irritability
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
It is extremely important to get examined immediately after a car accident, even if you have no symptoms. The delayed start of treatment can make it difficult to correct damage to the tissues. Follow-up care is proven effective in fully restoring the spine’s function and preventing chronic pain, disability, and worsening conditions.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact our firm today to schedule a free confidential consultation and case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys. You pay nothing until we successfully resolve your legal claims and secure the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries.