Whiplash Information for Patients and Families
Common Whiplash Causes, Symptoms and Risk Factors
Nov 12, 2009
Whiplash is a soft tissue cervical spine (neck region) injury. This soft tissue injury occurs when a patient experiences a quick forward-backward movement. Hyperflexion is when the neck moves in a forward motion ,while hyperextension occurs with backward motion.
The cervical spine can be vulnerable to injury. The neck is comprised of both bones and soft tissue. Some of the parts of the neck include ligaments, disc, cervical muscles and intervertebral joints.
Patients may not be aware that a whiplash injury has occurred. Whiplash injuries may be analyzed to learn the medical causes, symptoms and risk factors ,which may interfere with a correct diagnosis.
Whiplash Causes
One whiplash cause is child neglect, such as when a person shaking a child forcefully. However, most causes occur from individuals participating in physical activities. Some whiplash causes may include:
- Sports injuries, which can occur during contact sports such as football and hockey.
- Falls, which may happen when a patient falls on an ice patch or a slippery floor.
- Car accidents, which can happen to a driver or car passenger. Patients may not feel initial symptoms, so it is critical to see a health care provider for diagnosis.
Whiplash Symptoms
Patients who may or may not have medical symptoms should seek medical attention. Some whiplash injuries may range from mild to severe. Some symptoms of whiplash may include:
- Tingling, which may occur from nerve compression in the cervical spine or spinal column.
- Tenderness, which may be felt throughout the spinal column.
- Difficulty moving the neck, which may be caused by muscle spasms and stiffness.
- Headaches, which can begin in the morning and last for hours.
Whiplash Risk Factors for Recovery
Some patients may have risk factors that interfere with recovery. The current injury can overlap with other health factors ,so additional questions and diagnostic testing may be ordered. Some whiplash risk factors may include:
- Prior injuries, such as those from a prior car accident, fall or sports injury.
- Prior pain, which may range from simple headaches to chronic back pain. Whiplash can aggravate the earlier medical injury.
- Poor posture in patients who were leaning forward with the chest or head.
Whiplash patients may have symptoms lasting from weeks to years. A health care professional should be contacted to verify a cervical spine injury, including a medical evaluation.
Whiplash injury compensation may given to victims of motor vehicle accidents. Health providers, personal injury lawyers and car insurance companies analyze car accidents. The causes, symptoms and risk factors can be used to calculate how much compensation for whiplash injuries.
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Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purposes only so that patients are aware of the options available. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your doctor.
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