If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a Little Rock, Arkansas auto accident, the likelihood of a whiplash injury is high. Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then back, or vice versa, causing damage to the soft tissue in the neck. It’s a traumatic experience that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, and wondering where to turn.
Our Little Rock car accident attorney understands the physical and emotional toll that whiplash can have on victims and their loved ones. That’s why we’ve created this blog post to help educate and inform you about whiplash, its symptoms, and the steps you can take to ensure you receive the proper treatment and care.
Causes of Whiplash
This type of neck injury is caused by the head jerking back and forth rapidly, similar to the snapping of a whip. It is also commonly referred to simply as a neck injury. Whiplash is most common in car accidents, when a car is hit from behind and the occupant’s head snaps backward and then flies forward. Muscles and other structures of the neck are extended beyond the normal range of motion, causing damage.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Symptoms of whiplash can either develop immediately or months after an accident. Some symptoms of whiplash may include:
- Pain in your neck, arms, shoulders, or upper back
- Shooting pain down one or both of your arms
- Weakness in your arms
- Discomfort when turning your head to the side
- Stiffness in the neck, arms, or shoulders
- Headaches
If you experience any of the above symptoms after a car accident, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Treatment and Care for Whiplash
With prompt treatment, most people heal well from a whiplash injury. It is therefore essential to get a professional medical assessment of your injury as soon as possible after the accident. Also, completing your prescribed treatment can increase the likelihood of a successful recovery.
It could take several months to a year or more before you feel “like yourself” again, but people generally respond well to treatment. Treatment may include:
- Application of ice and heat as directed by your treating medical professional
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Prescription pain relievers
- Prescription muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy
Unfortunately, some people experience ongoing problems after a whiplash injury, like chronic pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and weakness. These individuals might need additional treatments, like steroid injections, pain management, and more extended physical therapy. In some instances, injuries to the neck require surgical intervention.
Our Little Rock Car Accident Attorney Can Help
We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, especially one involving whiplash, can be overwhelming and confusing. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this process, and there are legal professionals who are here to help you. It’s a good idea to seek legal guidance to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our law firm offers a free consultation. A personal injury attorney will discuss your case with you and help guide you through the legal process. Don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation, and let us help you on the road to recovery.
