After a motor vehicle accident or sudden injury, the body usually goes into a state of shock or distress, adrenaline kicks in, and the immediate pain is masked. The body’s reaction is helpful when we need to find help or make important decisions, but it can also have detrimental consequences for anyone who doesn’t have their symptoms checked.
Whiplash might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, and while it’s possible to scrape through with a sore neck and shoulders for a day or two, the long-term effects can be quite serious.
Whiplash is a common injury that is caused by a traumatic incident such as a sports injury or a car accident, wherein the neck is extended beyond its typical range of motion, causing an abrupt forward-backward movement to the spine that results in damage to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons – especially those that support the head. This type of injury can cause significant pain and suffering.
The immediate effects are not always obvious, and for this reason, they can often go untreated. The symptoms of your whiplash will depend on its severity. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all, while some suffer from severe pain and symptoms. So, what are the symptoms of whiplash?
Common symptoms can include:
Some common symptoms of whiplash include:
- Pain and stiffness in the neck area
- Swelling or tenderness in the neck and shoulder area
- Numbness or the feeling of pins and needles in the arms and hands
- Restricted movement in the neck area
- Muscle spasms
- Back Pain
- Dizziness and Fatigue
- Headaches
- Nausea
In addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience emotional and mental symptoms, such as:
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disturbance
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Difficulty concentrating
If you are experiencing fatigue, dizziness, or vertigo (feeling as if you are spinning even if you are standing still), or your symptoms begin to worsen, then you should seek medical attention immediately. It is extremely important to be checked by a GP as you could be experiencing something more serious than whiplash.
The best step after an accident is to speak to an experienced legal team. Not only can we help you to “value” your case, but we can also offer the support you need. A legal professional can also help ensure you do not inadvertently take a step that could put your claim in question. Our lawyers and team have the resources and skills to provide you with the advice you need to protect your claim and resolve it successfully.
It can be challenging to think of all the steps necessary after an accident, but we are here to support you with this process. Contact us for a consultation. We can help you stay fully informed and in the best position to take care of your accident claim.
