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Whiplash Injuries After a Car Accident

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Whiplash injuries are the most common types of injury sustained in a car accident. The term whiplash refers to a neck injury that occurs when a person’s head is thrust forward and then suddenly snapped backward. This injury is typical of a rear-end collision, although it can happen in any type of car accident. And while many whiplash injuries are not severe and heal within weeks, some symptoms may persist and may result in more serious complications. Our Colorado Springs whiplash injury attorneys will provide you a FREE case consultation. And we won’t charge any fee until we are able to collect money for you.

Symptoms of a Whiplash Injury

When whiplash occurs, the neck muscles and ligaments are strained beyond their customary range of motion. Symptoms typically manifest within 24 hours of the incident. However, the development of symptoms can be delayed and may not become apparent for many days. In some cases, symptoms may subside, only to return a few days later. These symptoms often include stiffness in the neck and sometimes the muscles of the chest, shoulders, and arms.

With over-the-counter pain relievers and ice or heat therapy, many symptoms dissipate after a few days or weeks. However, chronic pain that is not relieved by prescription medicine and physical therapy may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Symptoms that indicate a more serious whiplash injury include:

  • Pain radiating down the arms
  • Tingling or numbness in the arms, hands, or legs
  • Muscle weakness,
  • Severe pain in the neck, or
  • Inability to move your head

Whiplash injury symptoms can be debilitating and painful. They can prevent you from working, enjoying your hobbies, and even living an active lifestyle. Yet although your injuries are very real—insurance companies are often skeptical of whiplash claims. As a result, they often delay or deny whiplash accident claims—and they offer low-ball settlements. Without an attorney on your side—you may not obtain the money you need to pay for a complete recovery.

If you sustained a whiplash injury in an accident, it is important to know that you are not alone. At the Green Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys understand the pain you are suffering and realize how serious whiplash injuries can be. We fight aggressively for our whiplash clients—to ensure that their rights are protected throughout the legal process. Never accept any settlement with the insurance company without first speaking to us.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Whiplash Related Injuries

It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, if you suspect a whiplash injury. A doctor will perform a thorough physical examination of your head and neck. He or she will ask you questions concerning your neck injury and past health. Additionally, you may need X-rays, an MRI, or CT scan to look for other neck or back injuries.

Most incidences of whiplash improve with treatment at home. The use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, along with heat and cold therapy should ease the pain as you heal. Use of a special pillow while you sleep, or a soft foam collar during the day might also ease the stiffness. Most importantly, avoid athletics and other physical activities that might worsen your discomfort.

Even if the pain subsides sooner, the neck requires three months to heal after whiplash. And in severe cases, it could take 6 to 12 months to fully heal. Physical therapy after the pain is gone will facilitate full healing and ensure that your injury does not become a chronic condition.