“Whiplash” is a colloquialism for neck strain caused by a variety of factors, but it occurs most often after being involved in a car accident. The pain associated with whiplash can be severe and debilitating. The pain typically lasts a few days or weeks, but in some cases it can seem never ending.
Any sudden blow or impact that causes your neck to jerk forward or backward quickly and with sudden force can cause neck strain. “Neck strains are caused by damage to the muscle or the tendons, bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones,” according to WebMD.
Below is a list of common symptoms associated with whiplash:
• Headaches that begin at the base of the neck.
• Stiffness and pain when moving the head from side to side or front to back.
• Tenderness in the neck area.
• Tightness in the neck and possible knots or hardness in the neck muscles.
Treatments for whiplash can often be done at home, while some cases may require a visit to a specialist. The following are ways to find relief from whiplash symptoms:
• Wear a neck brace or collar. This type of neck support may be recommended by a doctor as a short-term solution.
• Take painkillers. Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers such as naproxen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain. An anti-inflammatory, pain relieving medication is usually necessary.
• Ice the neck. Apply an icepack or cold compress soon after the injury occurs. This can help keep the swelling to a minimum. Ice the affected area for 20-30 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2-3 days.
• Apply moist heat. Hot compresses should only be used after ice has been applied for the first 3 days.
• If the above options are not providing relief, a massage or ultrasound may be necessary.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and are suffering from whiplash or another type of injury, consider hiring a personal injury attorney to represent you.