Whiplash is an injury to the neck caused by a quick back-and-forth motion of the head area. The condition is often associated with rear-end automobile collisions. However, whiplash can result from other events such as falls and sports injuries. While some people with neck injuries feel better within a few days, others require treatment with a whiplash doctor. Whiplash is a severe condition, and you should never ignore neck pain, particularly after a car accident. Here is an overview of the symptoms of whiplash after a car accident and your treatment options from car accident doctors in Brooklyn, NY.
Symptoms of Whiplash After Car Accident
If you are a Brooklyn resident, you are familiar with New York traffic and the frequent accidents. Flatbush Avenue, Grand Army Plaza, Flatbush Avenue Extension, and Tillary Street are considered among the most dangerous intersections in Brooklyn. More collisions occur there than at other intersections in the borough. The Belt Parkway also sees a large number of auto accidents each year.
If you have recently been involved in a rear-end accident on the Parkway, or another roadway in Brooklyn, you may have suffered whiplash. Signs usually appear within 24 hours of the accident. Here are the symptoms of whiplash after car accident:
- Neck stiffness and pain
- Limited neck range of motion
- Headaches
- Pain in the shoulders, arms, or upper back
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
While most symptoms appear within a day of the crash, some people do not develop symptoms for a week or more.
Whiplash Diagnosis
To diagnose whiplash, your doctor will ask you a series of questions about the car accident and the symptoms you are experiencing. Specific tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be performed to rule out other conditions or diagnose the damage’s extent. A physical examination may also be performed to detect tenderness and to inspect your range of motion. Only a licensed professional can diagnose whiplash.
Whiplash Doctor Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for those with whiplash. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition and your age, and general health status. The first course of treatment is often a pain medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen. More severe cases may require prescription painkillers or other types of drugs such as muscle relaxants.
In addition to painkillers, car accident doctors in Brooklyn, NY, may recommend physical therapy. Simple exercises and stretches can help you build strength and regain some neck range of motion. Applying heat or ice to the neck area after physical therapy can help quicken the recovery process. Further, practicing good posture, getting plenty of sleep, and avoiding strenuous activity are all recommended after suffering from whiplash.
Your doctor may also recommend you wear a brace to support your neck. Most collars are only used for a few days after the injury, and you should never wear the brace for more than a few hours a day.
Massages and acupuncture have also been proven to help those suffering from neck pain. While medical professionals do not often recommend these services, some people find relief after regular massage therapy or acupuncture.
Work With Medical Clinics of New York City
Were you recently involved in a car accident, and you suspect you suffered a whiplash? The Medical Clinics of New York City specializes in diagnosing and treating neck injuries. We employ the most skillful and experienced auto accident doctors in New York. If you were injured in an auto collision, do not worry about paying for your medical care. Most New York no-fault insurance policies cover doctor consultations and medical bills. Schedule an appointment now to see a whiplash doctor.
