Car Accident FAQ: Do I Have Whiplash?

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Car Accidents

If you have been hit from behind in a car accident, the terrible pain in your neck could have been caused by whiplash.  The term whiplash describes the type of movement your neck can experience during a hit from behind.  The neck is initially snapped back, called hyperextension, followed by strong propulsion forward, called hyperflexion, before the neck and head finally come to rest.  For this reason, the medical and legal communities typically refer to whiplash injuries as hyperextension/hyperflexion injuries.

When these movements occur, it is common to experience injuries to the soft tissues of the neck.  These soft tissues can include muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and intervertebral discs.  Sometimes the symptoms involved with soft tissue injuries are not felt right away.  This does not mean the injuries are not serious.  This is why it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible following a motor vehicle accident.

Some of the more common symptoms you can experience with hyperextension/hyperflexion injuries include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Pain radiating down the arm
• Numbness or tingling in the arm
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Decreased range of motion

Sometimes these symptoms are mild.  Other times, they can be severe, require intervention, and can continue for many months.  Treatment options include medication for pain control and muscle spasm, physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation, and physical modalities.  According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, acupuncture, intermittent traction and laser were shown to be the most beneficial of physical modalities for chronic neck pain.

If you have been the victim of a car accident, seek medical help as soon as possible after an accident.  Early intervention can often provide a better prognosis for your condition.  Having your medical condition documented can also help you if you are considering making a personal injury claim.  To learn more about filing a personal injury claim, contact a qualified Illinois personal injury attorney today.