It’s easy enough to think that whiplash from a car accident is not a real thing. There have been numerous scenes on TV and in movies where a person faked whiplash in order to make people believe they were injured for monetary reasons. But this was fiction, and at OMG Law Firm, we know that whiplash is real and we are the personal injury lawyers to speak to about compensation for any personal injury you’ve experienced that has caused whiplash.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is an injury affecting the soft tissue and joints of the spine, most frequently the cervical spine, which is the uppermost part of the spine. These injuries are the result of a quick movement forward, then back of the head. The most common cause of whiplash is a car accident in which you were struck from behind, but it can also be caused by contact sports or physical assault.
Complaints of whiplash symptoms normally occur within five weeks of the incidents.
Do You Have Whiplash?
While only a doctor can officially diagnose whiplash, there are some symptoms that point in that direction and indicate that you should seek medical attention. The soft tissues, muscles, and tendons, can swell and be sore, your spine may be affected and a disc can be moved out of place causing the spinal cord or other nerves to be impinged upon which causes pain and tingling.
According to the Mayo Clinic common symptoms of whiplash include the following:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Movement causes pain to worsen
- Loss of range of motion in neck
- Headaches, tingling and /or numbness in arms
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
To be diagnosed with whiplash you may need to be examined by an orthopedic surgeon, undergo an MRI, and have a nerve conduction test.
Can Whiplash be Treated?
There is great news for people with whiplash! With patience, physical therapy, and other proactive actions such as spinal stability yoga and massage you have a chance of minimizing symptoms. In many cases, it becomes a question of managing the symptoms rather than getting rid of the altogether.
Can it Last Forever?
While it might feel like it will last forever when you are suffering the disconcerting effects of whiplash if you do your physical therapy and all the other things your doctor and physical therapist recommend, you may eventually be rid of the most annoying symptoms. When your symptoms last more than six months, it is considered by many physicians to be what is called Post-Whiplash symptoms and this can be treated differently by your physical therapist. It may also change the story in terms of looking for compensation. You may be able to ask for a settlement that will cover future medical bills.
If you are suffering from whiplash as a result of a car accident or other situation that could fall under personal injury, call us today to see how we can help you make sure your bills are all covered and that you get a pain and suffering award.