Telltale Signs of Whiplash | Effective Forms of Treatment
Whiplash is the most common injury arising out of a motor vehicle accident. It’s also frequently associated with slips and falls, as well as workplace mishaps. What is whiplash, and how can you tell if you have a whiplash-type injury? What types of treatment are available? What are your prospects for full recovery, and how long will that take?
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is commonly associated with a sudden and violent jerking or snapping back and forth of your head and neck. In motor vehicle accidents, it’s usually the result of impact with another vehicle or object, where your forward motion is suddenly stopped, causing your head to careen forward and, typically, snap backward. In a slip-and-fall accident, it’s also generally the result of impact with another object.
In the immediate aftermath of a whiplash-type injury, you can expect pain, discomfort, or stiffness in your neck and shoulders. Within a short period of time, you’ll commonly experience some degree of headache, often caused by swelling or inflammation. It’s also typical to suffer some level of dizziness or vertigo, as well as limited range of motion. Your muscles may be tender, and you can also expect some tingling or numbness.
How Is Whiplash Generally Treated?
Whiplash is a soft-tissue injury, typically involving inflammation, bruising, sprains, strains, or tears to connective tissue. Doctors typically prescribe a couple of days of rest, though too much rest can slow down the healing process. Applications of heat and ice can also bring relief.
In the short-term, anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers can help manage your pain. If it’s particularly severe, your doctor may recommend an injection to minimize pain and relax tight muscles. Physical therapy can help relieve muscle tension and build strength, and chiropractic care has proven effective in treating whiplash.
What Is the Typical Recovery Period After a Whiplash Injury?
Though recovery depends to some extent on the severity of your injury, most whiplash victims return to full functionality within 4-12 weeks.
Contact Us for Treatment After a Whiplash Injury
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working with people who have suffered any level of whiplash, whether in a motor vehicle accident, workplace accident, or slip-and-fall. We have the tools and knowledge to carefully evaluate your medical condition. We may opt to prescribe and monitor a regimen of care ourselves, or we may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or physiatrist, if necessary. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
