Treatment for whiplash can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.
Did you know that whiplash is one of the most common injuries in America? According to recent statistics, it’s responsible for over 2.5 million visits to the doctor each year. And that’s just the people who seek medical attention. Unfortunately, many more suffer from whiplash injuries and do not seek medical attention.
This leads to two important questions: What is whiplash? And what would happen if you left it untreated?
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a type of injury caused by the sudden movement of the head, either forward, backward, or sideways. This can occur in car accidents, sporting events, or any other situation with a sudden impact.
Whiplash can cause various symptoms, including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, irritability, and sleep disturbance. In some cases, the victim may not experience any symptoms until days or even weeks after the accident.
What Happens if Left Untreated?
If whiplash is left untreated, it can lead to the following long-term problems:
Chronic Neck Pain
If left untreated, chronic neck pain can occur. This pain persists for more than three months after the initial injury. Symptoms may include aching, stiffness, and tenderness in the neck. In some cases, chronic neck pain can lead to limitations in movement and decreased quality of life.
Loss of Mobility
Whiplash can also lead to loss of mobility, as the neck muscles may become so stiff and sore that they cannot support the head. This can cause the victim to lose balance and experience difficulty walking or performing everyday tasks. In some cases, the victim may not be able to return to work or resume their normal activities.
Persistent Headaches
Whiplash can also cause persistent headaches, which may last for weeks or even months after the initial injury. These headaches can be debilitating and interfere with your ability to function normally.
Ringing in the Ears
Whiplash can also cause ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus. This condition causes a person to hear a ringing, buzzing, or humming noise that is not actually there. Tinnitus can be very disruptive and may interfere with your ability to sleep, work, or enjoy life.
Seeking Treatment
If you are involved in a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Treatment for whiplash can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.
Some treatment options for whiplash include chiropractic care, physical therapy, and medications, including painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the damage caused by whiplash.
St. Louis Whiplash Attorneys
Compensation for whiplash can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To increase your chances of fair compensation, it is highly recommended that you speak with an experienced car accident attorney.
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we have decades of experience helping car accident victims get the compensation they deserve and can help you too. Contact us today for a free consultation.