Whiplash Injuries and Symptoms Following a Utah Car Wreck
Approximately 8% of all Utah car accident victims sustain whiplash injuries. Although it is a common injury in Utah accident cases, whiplash should not be taken lightly. Jonathan Grauer, MD, and Travis Maak, BS, composed a helpful article explaining the symptoms and treatments for whiplash injuries. Here is a short summary of the article for reference in case you have suffered a Utah whiplash injury.
Whiplash and its symptoms
Whiplash occurs when a sudden impact causes the neck to over extend in either a forward or backward motion. As this happens, bodily reflexes initiate muscles to forcefully contract and “whip” the head quickly in the opposite direction. This often results in tissue strains and tears in the upper spinal area. Whiplash can damage different structures of the body, including intervertebral discs and ligaments, capsule and facet joints, and certain areas of the spine.
Whiplash often results in sever neck pain, although some victims may experience pain in their heads, shoulders, backs, and even their jaws. Other symptoms include headaches, numbness in one’s extremities and dizziness. While these symptoms often dissipate after a few days or weeks, they can sometimes last several years.
Treatment options for whiplash
Unfortunately, there is no quick cure for whiplash injuries. Anti-inflammatory medications will reduce the pain in the short-term and muscle relaxants will help reduce neck spasms. Doctors may recommend some patients wear a cervical collar until the pain alleviates and others may recommend physical therapy if necessary. 26% of whiplash victims who suffer chronic symptoms are unable to return to full activity, whether leisurely or at work, for as long as six months after the injury. Most patients, however, experience full recovery. In the end, time alone will cure whiplash’s symptoms.
In Utah traffic accidents, whiplash injuries often accompany other debilitating injuries such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injury. If you have been in a Utah traffic accident resulting from another driver’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. For a free consultation of your legal rights, contact the expert Utah injury and accident attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm for a free consultation at 801.506.0800. We will diligently work to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
