Recognizing and Managing Whiplash

Whiplash is an injury that occurs when the neck is violently moved in various directions rapidly. This movement causes tears in the soft tissues of the neck, impacting the nerves, tendons, muscles, and discs. It’s most common in auto accidents, but it can also occur in some sports activities and more. If you sustain this neck injury, recognizing the symptoms and taking the appropriate steps is key. Our team at The Spine Doc in Birmingham has put together this quick guide to help.

Signs of Whiplash

Two of the most common symptoms of whiplash are pain and neck stiffness. As these two symptoms can occur due to many causes, remember that whiplash typically occurs after an auto accident or other forceful incident. Other symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain
• Pain or numbness in the arm or hand
• Ringing in your ears
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness
• Trouble focusing
• Pain in the lower back
• Fatigue or sleeplessness
• Irritability

If you experience some or several of these symptoms after a car accident, it’s most likely due to whiplash.

Managing a Whiplash Neck Injury

What do you do when you notice the signs we have mentioned? There are several steps to take to reduce your symptoms and heal, including the following:

Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your neck for 15 minutes at a time during the first 24 to 72 hours after your car accident.

Give your neck a rest for the first 24 hours. After that, start very gentle movements to help stretch your neck. Though it’s tempting to be completely still, this can increase the stiffness if you rest for too long.

Until you heal, avoid sitting at a desk for long periods or carrying anything heavy, including backpacks and purses.

Schedule an appointment with our team. We can help you heal more quickly through both soft and hard tissue therapies.

Get Whiplash Treatment in Birmingham, AL

If you’ve recently been in an accident and are suffering from whiplash, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment with our team at The Spine Doc by calling (205) 951-3330 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.