How common are car accidents? More common than you think. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
For one thing, it can easily cause a fatal head injury. Even if you’re lucky enough to survive, you might suffer internal bleeding or broken ribs.
Whiplash is another common injury that can result from a car crash. Depending on the severity, it can lead to life-long consequences.
Want to learn more about chronic whiplash? If so, you’re on the right page. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when a person’s head suddenly moves back and forth with great force. While it’s often due to rear-end collisions, it can also result from sports injuries or amusement park rides (e.g. roller coasters).
Generally speaking, most people will recover within a few weeks. However, some people may experience long-lasting pain and complications.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Symptoms generally appear within 24 hours. For instance, an individual may experience neck pain, stiffness, dizziness, headache, or blurred vision.
In some cases, they might also experience problems with concentration or ringing in the ears. Contact your doctor if you have chronic pain in the neck that spreads to your shoulder or arms.
Tip: Consider searching “auto accident doctor near me” to find a doctor near you.
Potential Consequences of Chronic Whiplash
Some people may experience chronic pain or headaches after the accident. This may be due to damaged disks, joints, or ligaments. As it is, however, many cases will have no medical explanation.
Unfortunately, it’s difficult to predict whether or not an individual will have any long-lasting complications. With that said, severe symptoms are often associated with chronic pain.
Treatment Options for Whiplash
More often than not, your doctor will recommend an over-the-counter medication for pain. Depending on the severity, they might also prescribe you a painkiller or muscle relaxant.
For the first couple of days, they might also ask you to wear a foam collar as it’ll help to stabilize your neck. Keep in mind, however, that they shouldn’t be worn for more than 2-3 hours at a time.
Aside from that, it also helps to apply ice or heat to the injured area. There are also exercises that you can do to strengthen your neck muscles.
Alternative Remedies
Alternative medicine can help as well. Take acupuncture, for example—studies have shown that it might offer some pain relief. The same thing goes for massages.
Going to the chiropractor is another option. Not only will they be able to stretch out the affected muscles, but they can also help create mobility by manipulating the spine.
Understanding Whiplash
As you can see, chronic whiplash is a thing. That’s why it’s so important to go to the doctor if you notice any symptoms!
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