Whiplash Recovery Timeline: Duration & Factors Influencing Healing
Car accidents happen on the roads frequently causing a myriad of injuries. Whether you’re in a serious accident, or a small fender bender, it is a good idea to be checked out by a Chandler car accident doctor to identify any hidden injuries and ensure a full recovery.
If you have been in a car crash, you might be familiar with the resulting neck pain. This pain is a result of a whiplash injury which is a common injury resulting from car crashes, both big and small. While not every car crash victim experiences whiplash, most do and it is essential to have it checked by a medical professional right away.
Understanding Whiplash: Causes & Diagnosis
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully jerked backward and then forward, typically in a rapid whip-like motion. It happens most frequently in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions.
The injury primarily affects the soft tissues of the neck, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. And causes neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and other symptoms. In some cases, whiplash can lead to long-term complications or chronic pain which is why it’s important to see a Gilbert car accident chiropractor immediately.
Identifying Whiplash: Common Signs & Symptoms To Watch For
There are many signs and symptoms of whiplash, but for many people they don’t notice any signs or symptoms until hours or even days after their car accident. Once the signs do appear, additional damage may have been done due to movement, inflammation, and lack of treatment.
The signs and symptoms can vary in severity and include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Reduced range of motion
- Tenderness or pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Blurred vision or difficulty concentrating
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
In some cases, whiplash symptoms may persist for weeks or even months. If you suspect you have whiplash or experience any of the symptoms after a car crash, it’s advisable to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treated Effective Whiplash Treatments: From Chiropractic Care To Physical Therapy
Oftentimes, the first reaction to pain is to take pain medication to cause temporary relief. While this may help for a time, whiplash requires professional attention from a Mesa car crash doctor in order to heal properly.
Whiplash benefits from chiropractic treatment where the underlying cause is identified and symptoms are addressed appropriately rather than masking them with pain medication. Chiropractors will use adjustments to help align your spine, easing your damaged tissue’s tension and giving you motion in your neck and shoulders.
In addition to chiropractic care, whiplash is also treated with physical therapy ensuring your injury is entirely treated and healed from the car accident. During physical therapy, you will work towards gaining your range of motion back so you can move as normal again. Ice and heat therapy may also be recommended.
Navigating Whiplash Effects: Short-Term Relief & Long-Term Recovery
Once you find out you have whiplash, you will begin treatment. The treatment will vary depending on your injury and which tissues were damaged. In most cases, you can expect whiplash to be fully healed within 6 months, however some patients can have neck pain for up to 10 years. Very few end up with pain the rest of their lives, though this is uncommon.
You and your doctor will be able to determine your outlook within the first several weeks of your treatment with a Phoenix car accident chiropractor. If you have severe pain right away, your injury may be worse and you may face lingering symptoms. Additionally, if you have any chronic conditions like a former neck injury or arthritis, you may be looking at a longer recovery.
If you find yourself with whiplash symptoms for more than 6 months, you will be diagnosed with chronic whiplash. Additional treatments will be prescribed. Whiplash treatment is considered complete once the symptoms have gone completely.
Reach Out To Our Trusted Car Crash Doctors For Comprehensive Healing From Whiplash!
If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are experiencing symptoms of whiplash, reach out to our trusted car crash doctors for comprehensive healing! Our experienced medical professionals at AZ Crash Doctors specialize in assessing and treating whiplash injuries. We provide personalized care to address your specific symptoms, offering a thorough diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Don’t delay seeking the help you need; contact us to start your journey towards recovery!
AZ CRASH DOCTORS
18477 S 186th Way #101
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Tel: 480-618-680
Email: azcrashdoctors@gmail.com
