What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a common condition associated with car accidents. The term “whiplash” is actually not a medical term, but is more commonly used to describe a wide range of neck injuries, including neck sprain and strain. Signs and symptoms of whiplash include:

• Aching, pain, and stiffness in the neck

• Headaches

• Numbness or a “pins and needles” feeling in the arms and hands

• Back and shoulder pain

 

What causes whiplash?

The most common cause of whiplash is when a person is hit from the rear in a car accident and the head abruptly jerks forward. This sudden directional change of the spine can have very painful effects on the soft tissues in the neck.

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How is whiplash diagnosed?

Generally, whiplash sufferers are first given x-rays to rule out any serious damage to the bones of the neck. From there, the doctor will decide if an MRI scan is needed to further diagnose the problem. Often, the doctor can get a diagnosis simply from taking down your symptoms and examining your neck and head.

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How do you treat whiplash?

Depending on the severity of the injury, a patient may be given a cervical collar to wear around the neck to reduce mobility. However, in some instances, patients are encouraged to start doing simple neck exercises as soon as possible. Other whiplash treatments include:

• Pain management

• Massage

• Heat and ice

• Physical therapy

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What is the recovery time for whiplash?

In most cases, whiplash sufferers recover from their injuries after a few days of mild to moderate pain. Occasionally, severe cases of whiplash can result in pain that persists long after the initial accident and restricts movement of the head and neck.

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If you’ve been in a car accident in New Jersey and think you have whiplash, please call us at 866-609-4448 or fill out our contact form for a consultation.

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Whether your injury is a small one, or is more serious, the staff at Sall Myers Medical Associates has your needs covered.