Whiplash injuries

A person involved in a car accident in South Carolina may experience whiplash as a result of their collision. Whiplash is a painful injury that occurs when a person’s neck is violently whipped back and forth. This type of injury is frequently associated with car accidents because the impact of a moving vehicle may cause passengers to be pushed in several directions. Even a minor whiplash injury can be costly to treat and may take months to heal.

Whiplash injuries, also known as cervical sprains or strains, are usually found in the ligaments of the neck. These ligaments are responsible for balancing, moving and supporting the head. When the head is violently forced beyond a normal range of movement, these sensitive ligaments can be torn or overextended. Facet joints, located at the back of the spine, are frequently damaged in cases of whiplash.

In some cases, a person who has suffered whiplash may not immediately notice their injury. Their adrenalin may be pumping directly after an accident, preventing them from noticing pain or stiffness. Because whiplash injuries often involve torn or stretched muscles, people suffering from whiplash may not realize that they have been injured until days later when their muscles begin to ache.

Whiplash can have many symptoms, including stiffness, sore muscles, dizziness, nausea, trouble seeing, difficulty swallowing, headaches and memory problems. These symptoms are usually treated by a chiropractor, who may recommend massage, stretches or light exercise to alleviate the pain. Although rare, some whiplash injuries may require surgery or physical therapy.

Car accidents can lead to painful injuries and steep medical bills. An attorney may be able to use testimony from doctors and witnesses to indicate that a negligent driver is financially responsible for a client’s injuries.

Source: American Chiropractic Association , “Whiplash“, January 04, 2015