What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a kind of neck injury that happens when a powerful force causes the neck to move forward and then backward or vice versa. It is named thus because the motion resembles the cracking of a whip. Generally speaking, whiplash is caused by car accidents. However, there are other potential causes, such as contact sports and physical assault. Regardless, whiplash comes up a lot in cases involving car accident lawyers for apparent reasons.
What Are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
Here are some of the symptoms of whiplash, which should convince affected individuals to seek out a diagnosis:
Neck Pain and Stiffness
Neck pain and stiffness are some of the most common symptoms of whiplash, which makes sense considering the nature of such injuries. In some cases, affected individuals might even experience a continued negative impact of these symptoms whenever they move their necks.
Reduced Range of Motion For the Neck
On a related note, it is also common for affected individuals to reduce the range of motion for their neck.
Pain in the Shoulders, the Upper Back, and the Arms
The motion that causes whiplash can hurt parts of the body beyond the neck. As a result, affected individuals should watch out for pain in their shoulders, upper back, and even arms. Relevant symptoms aren’t limited to pain. Tenderness, tingling, and a sense of numbness can count as well.
Headaches
It is common for someone with whiplash to experience headaches. Often, this means headaches that start at the base of the skull. However, other kinds of headaches are also possible.
Concentration and Memory Problems
Some people with whiplash will experience either concentration or memory problems. Similarly, there are other potential symptoms such as irritability, depression, and dizziness.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
If someone has whiplash, they should contact a car accident lawyer from Robert J. DeBry & Associates for professional assistance as soon as possible.