One of the most common forms of injury resulting from a road traffic accident or accident at work can be a neck-injury known as Whiplash. Its name is derived from the whipping motion of the neck caused by very fast acceleration or deceleration; the damage being caused by the overstretching of the tendons and ligaments in the neck. This rapid movement of the neck can sometimes just cause some discomfort, but in other cases it can be a lot more serious; sometimes causing fractures of the neck or even a serious spinal injury.
Symptoms of Whiplash
The symptoms of whiplash or neck injury can be varied, but they frequently include:
- Pain in the neck and lower back
- Restricted movement
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Pins and needles in the hands and arms
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
Depending on the severity of the injury, some of these symptoms might last for only a few hours after the incident, but in serious cases these can last for months, even years after the event.
How can Whiplash be treated?
In cases of mild whiplash, most can be treated with rest and some suitable mild exercises to keep the neck mobile. More serious cases might involve some physiotherapy to ensure the recovery process is maintained. Use of drugs such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can minimise the pain and swelling, and in chronic cases a doctor may prescribe you more powerful painkillers such as codeine.
What to do if you have suffered from whiplash
If you have been involved in an accident at work, or a road traffic accident, or any other situation where you have been injured through someone else’s fault, you could be entitled to claim for compensation. Each case is different and before you decide to start the claims process you should consider whether your injury has made a significant difference to your life. Our highly experienced solicitors are on hand to talk you through the process and identify swiftly if you could be entitled to make a claim. Their advice is free, and if they think you have a case, they can do all in their power to ensure you receive the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today to see if we can help you.