What You Should Know About Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that results when your head suddenly moves backward and forward. If you recently suffered this injury, it’s important to get medical attention promptly. Here are some important facts you should know about whiplash.
Symptoms Aren’t Always Present Immediately
One of the most interesting facts about whiplash is that you may not notice any symptoms right away. You may feel perfectly okay initially. A few days later, however, you may start to feel pain. If you were recently in an accident, you should see a doctor right away to see if you suffered whiplash or not.
Whiplash Doesn’t Just Occur from Car Accidents
It’s true that many cases of whiplash occur during vehicle collisions. However, you can suffer this injury from other types of accidents too. If you suffered a slip and fall accident or sports accident, for example, a doctor should check you for signs of whiplash.
Seniors Have a Higher Risk of Suffering Whiplash
The older you are, the more likely you are to suffer whiplash. Your joints, muscles and tissue can deteriorate as you age, making you more susceptible to this injury. Seniors are more likely to suffer serious side effects from whiplash than their younger counterparts.
Neck Pain Isn’t the Only Symptom
Neck pain is the most common symptom associated with whiplash, but it isn’t the only symptom. You may also experience tingling in your arms, headaches, dizziness, jaw pain, shoulder pain, neck stiffness, and muscle spasms.
It’s Helpful to Stay Active
When you’re dealing with whiplash, exercising might be the last thing on your mind. However, moving around can actually help you recover faster. If you stay immobile after your injury, your neck can become stiffer. Ask your doctor about the types of exercises you can do.
It Doesn’t Take Much Force to Get a Whiplash Injury
The majority of whiplash injuries during car accidents occur at low speeds. If you weren’t properly restrained in the vehicle, you are more likely to suffer this injury.
There Are Several Available Treatment Options
Luckily, you can treat whiplash in several different ways. For example, your doctor may want you to wear a cervical collar to temporarily be able to immobilize the neck while it heals. Spinal manipulation or mobilization may also be able to restore the muscles in your neck.
If you have suffered whiplash during an accident, you should make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible. Contact Ocala Injury Center today!