A Firm Which Is Dedicated In Providing Access, Attention And Respect Your Case Demands

Whiplash injuries can be long-term

On Behalf of | Feb 9, 2022 | Car Accidents |

Many people who are involved in car accidents in California suffer from whiplash. Whiplash is often considered a minor car accident injury since it can be caused by small fender-benders. However, untreated whiplash can sometimes have lasting symptoms that are debilitating.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissue on the neck that is caused by a forceful back and forth movement of the head. It’s called whiplash because the head movement that causes it is similar to the movement of a whip cracking. Vehicle occupants often suffer from whiplash after being rear-ended, but the injury can occur during any type of car accident.

Symptoms are often delayed

Whiplash symptoms are usually not apparent in the moments following a car crash. Victims of motor vehicle accidents are typically in a state of shock, and adrenaline can disguise pain from whiplash and other injuries. Symptoms from musculoskeletal injuries like whiplash may take days to appear.

Healing from whiplash

A person with whiplash has muscles and tendons in their neck that have been overextended. Depending on the severity of the injury, these muscles and tendons may be strained or torn. Initial symptoms of whiplash include pain and stiffness in the neck, which can limit mobility.

Left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, headaches, vertigo and long-term mobility issues. When the injury is not given time to heal or is not treated by a chiropractor or physical therapist, upper vertebrae can get out of alignment and affect posture. Furthermore, misaligned vertebrae can cause herniated discs and impact the central nervous system.

Medical costs of whiplash

Treating whiplash can be expensive, especially if it is a severe injury that involves spinal misalignment. If you were involved in a car accident that was not your fault, you may be able to recover some of your medical treatment costs by filing a personal injury claim against the liable party.

Archives