You may think you’re lucky if there’s no visible injury during a sudden jolt in a car accident or if you accidentally slipped inside a restaurant. Well, think again. These incidents may lead to whiplash.
Many people tend to disregard whiplash injuries or they’re just unaware. If left untreated, they might get worse and lead to serious outcomes. You could also be forced to settle very expensive medical bills.
In this blog, we’ll explain what this injury is, what symptoms to look for, and how you can recover. Here at 1-800-ASK-GARY®, we want you to have the best medical and legal assistance you deserve.
What Exactly are Whiplash Injuries?
Whiplash injuries (also known as whiplash neck) happen if your neck forcefully moves back and forth. Sudden movements on your neck can cause strains or even damage your soft tissues. These include tendons, muscles, and ligaments.
There are different types of whiplash, such as the following:
- Mild strain: Stiffness and minor discomfort in the neck.
- Moderate damage: Ligaments or muscles are damaged, making it hard to move.
- Severe whiplash: Discs or nerves are damaged. You’ll need immediate medical treatment if this happens.
Knowing what whiplash is and its different types can help you know if you’re suffering from it.
What Can Cause Whiplash?
Whiplash can be caused by many things. One of the most common causes are car accidents. Drivers or passengers could suffer from whiplash if the car is hit, especially from behind. This could force your head to move back and forward, straining your neck.
Accidentally slipping is also another common cause. You could suffer from neck injuries if you accidentally slip from stairs or a wet floor.
Physical sports like rugby, football, and basketball can also lead to whiplash since they often involve sudden impacts on the head or neck. Other causes include physical violence and amusement parks.
How to Spot Whiplash Injuries
Knowing how to identify whiplash injury can save you from serious consequences and expensive bills. Symptoms usually appear within a day after an incident and can vary depending on the severity. Knowing what to look for can help you take action quickly.
Here are some of the most common whiplash symptoms:
- Stiffness or neck pain that worsens if you make a move
- Numbness or tingling arms
- Difficult to move the neck or limited movement range
- Pain in the upper back, arms, or shoulders
- Headaches that start near the base of the skull
Whiplash symptoms can also be confusing since they’re similar to signs of other injuries or illnesses. Here are other possible symptoms you shouldn’t disregard:
- Dizziness or blurry vision
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Feeling unusually tired or having trouble sleeping
- Mood swings, such as anxiety or feeling irritable
- Trouble focusing or remembering (memory problems)
If you experience some of these symptoms, then it would be best if you get early care.
How to Recover From Whiplash Injuries?
Recovering from whiplash injuries involves medical care and gradual activity. Taking quick action can help you ease the pain and recover faster. Here are some things that can help you.
Rest and Have Early Care
If you’re suffering from whiplash, rest for a day or two. Use ice packs for swelling while you’re resting. Doing this will help reduce your neck strain. Once the pain and swelling lessen, gently heat your neck to loosen tight muscles.
Take Medications for Pain Relief
You can buy pain relievers, such as ibuprofen if the pain or discomfort is not that serious. But, if you have severe symptoms, go to the doctor. They may prescribe you muscle relaxants or take prescription pain medications.
Do Gentle Exercises
Doing gentle exercises, such as stretching, can help your situation improve faster. You can also visit a physical therapist to reduce stiffness and avoid future injuries.
Adjust Your Lifestyle
Making certain adjustments in your lifestyle is also a must. You can start by using ergonomic chairs, maintaining a good posture, and using supportive pillows. Doing light activities, such as swimming, walking, and yoga can help provide relief and have other health benefits.
How Long Does It Take to Recover and How Much Does it Cost?
It depends on the severity. If your injuries aren’t that serious, recovery could take only a few days or weeks. But, if they’re severe, then you may be in pain for months or even longer.
There are some instances when victims experience continuous discomfort, which would require additional care. In worse scenarios, you could suffer from chronic pain. This usually happens if treatment is delayed or if you ignore the symptoms.
When it comes to costs, treating whiplash injuries could cost a few hundred to thousands of dollars. Aside from medications and other usual treatments, here are other things you might need to recover and how much.
- Diagnostic tests: $100 to over $1,000
- Physical therapy sessions: $50 to $200 each session
- Surgery (for serious whiplash injuries): $3,000 up to $30,000
If you’re not careful, you could suffer from whiplash longer and cost yourself thousands of dollars.
Need Assistance?
In whiplash injuries, acting fast is the key to recovery. If you need medical assistance immediately, call us here at ASK GARY by dialing 1-866-939-4794. We can connect you with trusted medical professionals to treat your neck injuries.If you need legal assistance for fair compensation, we can also match you with attorneys perfect for your needs. Our helpline is available 24/7 and our representatives are always ready to assist you with care and compassion. Contact us today or visit our website to learn more.
