Whiplash refers to when the skull is jerked backward and forward in response to an impact collision. Most cases of whiplash occur from car accidents, although whiplash can be caused by other jerky motions. This motion results in damage to the neck, which leads to a number of different symptoms that can become chronic if the right treatment techniques are not used quickly. Other areas of the spine, such as the mid and lower back may be injured as well during an impact.
Symptoms of Whiplash
After a person has experienced whiplash, he or she may experience a variety of symptoms. Common may symptoms include:
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Upper back pain
- Pain in the arm or shoulder
- Low back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Stiffness
- Sleep disturbances
- Weakness
- Tingling or numbness
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness
- Jaw pain
- Memory loss
Whiplash is Serious
One of the reasons that whiplash injuries lead to chronic symptoms is because many people do not pursue treatment after an accident. Some accidents are minor fender benders with very little damage to the vehicles, so the occupants of the cars don’t feel that they need to pursue care. The truth is that if the vehicle didn’t sustain any damage, more than likely the force of impact was sustained by your body.
In addition to a seemingly light-force impact, some accident victims don’t notice any symptoms immediately afterward. They may be more focused on potential damage, exchanging insurance information with the other party, or getting to work on time. Adrenaline is also flowing after an accident, which often makes it more difficult to recognize symptoms.
Whiplash symptoms often start out mild, but then increase over the days or even months. For some people the symptoms don’t show up until years later, which means that the damage is much worse and takes a lot longer to treat because of scar tissue buildup. This is why it is important to seek whiplash treatment within 48 hours of getting in an accident, even if you don’t think anything is wrong.
Not all offices perform the procedures necessary to determine the extent of your injuries. Even if you have been to the hospital or other doctors, it is vital to make sure that all of your injuries after a car accident have been addressed. Dr. Curletto will identify, document, and treat your injuries. He will also refer you to a specialist if necessary. Our team of clinically excellent specialists are some of the best in their field.
Trauma Team Doctor’s Team:
- Radiologist / Neuroradiologist
- Neurologist
- Neurosurgeon
- Pain Management / Anesthesiologist
- Orthopedic Surgeon
- Physical Medicine
- Neuro-Audiologist
Treatment
Treatment of whiplash injuries can vary quite a bit depending on the severity of the symptoms. Ice and rest may be recommended for mild muscle strains, or drugs and surgery may be necessary for bad injuries.
Visiting a chiropractor after a car accident is highly recommended, as a more conservative approach is used and the diagnosis and treatment leads to long-term healing. Dr Curletto is highly experienced in treating whiplash related injuries and will perform a thorough exam to determine exactly what is going on and what type of treatment and/or diagnostic tests are needed.
Car accidents can result in a lot of stress, and we are happy to assist you with any forms or accident reports that may be requested from your insurance company. We also have a number of personal injury attorneys we can recommend if necessary.
If you have experienced an auto accident and would like to learn more about your injuries, call our office for a FREE consultation today. We will help take the confusion and stress out of getting the care you need and the documentation you need. Our office will explain your Nevada Auto Injury rights so you can focus on your health.
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Please give us a call at 702-457-9000. We’re here to help.