What To Do For Whiplash After a Rear End Accident
Whiplash is a potentially serious condition often associated with automobile accidents, and it can result in a loss of mobility for an extended period of time besides severe pain. Furthermore, the full extent of this injury may not become apparent immediately following the incident from which it derived. In some cases, whiplash may take several days to reveal itself in full. In short, whiplash is an injury that affects the neck, typically on account of a sudden extension and flexion.
The characteristics of whiplash contain a range of afflictions that may include torn ligaments, strained muscles, stress to the cervical discs and pressure on nerve roots. Common symptoms of the condition include but are not limited to pain in the neck, shoulder and back region; headaches; vision problems and short-term cognitive issues. If left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and long-term afflictions. Seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident may help assuage these symptoms and reduce the likelihood that the afflictions become a long-term issue.
Treatments for whiplash may include non-prescription pain medications, prescription painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, heat therapy, muscle relaxants and massage therapy. Medical professionals prescribe cervical collars with less frequency these days since they may reduce flexibility and decrease muscle mass in the neck and back. Physical therapy may be required in some cases, and it often includes range-of-motion exercises to help rebuild muscle mass and flexibility in the muscles surrounding the neck.
It is important that accident victims who suspect that they might have suffered whiplash document the symptoms of their injury. Furthermore, it is critical for these victims to contact an attorney in the immediate aftermath of the event. Those who suffered whiplash and other injuries in accidents caused by another party may have the right to seek financial compensation for the economic damages associated with their injuries.
