What Is Whiplash

Whiplash refers to injuries sustained on the neck area. These injuries are caused by the sudden distortion of the neck, typically from motor accidents like quick bumps on the rear. Of course, this condition may also be caused by other events. One can suffer from whiplash when head banging, falling off bikes and horses, and riding roller coasters. Whiplash caused by motor accidents is more common though. Hence, it is one of the top injuries covered by car insurance companies.

Symptoms of whiplash

A sufferer of whiplash may not immediately experience these symptoms. It is important to be observant of one’s self after having been involved in accidents. Here are the symptoms of whiplash:

1. Neck and back pain: These are basic symptoms. One should also watch for aching in the shoulder area.
2. Pins and needles: This condition is also referred to as parenthesia. Here, the person experiences some numbness and tingling in the affected area.
3. Aches in the arms and head: These are peripheral aches when suffering from whiplash.

Normally, a person may not experience these symptoms until a few days after the accident. Once felt, the sufferer should consult a doctor. Whiplash directly affects the spinal column, from the pubic bone to the neck. A doctor should be consulted on possible remedies, before condition worsens.

Diagnosis of whiplash

For the doctor to accurately diagnose whiplash, the sufferer must get a head and neck examination and x-rays. The doctor should also refer to the patient’s history. These procedures can diagnose the extent of the damage, as well as other affected areas.