How Do I Know If I Have Whiplash After a Car Accident?
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in a car accident, and yet many people aren’t immediately aware that they have it. While some symptoms may appear right away, others can develop over time, making it crucial to be aware of what to watch for and why it’s important to get the right treatment early.
If you’ve been in an accident and are wondering “how do I know if I have whiplash?”, it’s essential to understand the signs and seek care from a personal injury doctor. Ignoring potential symptoms can lead to more serious complications down the road.
At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries, helping people in Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, and surrounding areas. Lance Stevenson, the Managing Director of Keystone Medical Group, shares that many individuals experience neck pain or stiffness after an accident but don’t always recognize it as whiplash. Seeking prompt evaluation and treatment can prevent longer-term issues.
Common Signs of Whiplash After a Car Accident
While whiplash is typically associated with neck injuries, the condition can have a range of symptoms that go beyond simple neck pain. Here are some common signs of whiplash:
- Neck Pain or Stiffness: The most common symptom, often starting within hours of the accident.
- Headaches: Pain that starts at the base of the skull and moves up toward the forehead.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unbalanced, especially when moving your head.
- Tingling or Numbness in the Arms: This can be caused by nerve irritation or damage.
- Difficulty Moving Your Neck: The inability to fully turn your head may indicate whiplash-related injury.
- Fatigue: A common, often overlooked symptom where you may feel unusually tired or sluggish.
These symptoms can vary in intensity, and some may not appear until days after the accident. It’s important to remember that even if you don’t feel severe pain right away, a professional evaluation can help identify underlying issues like muscle strains, ligament tears, or nerve damage caused by whiplash.
Why Seeing a Doctor is Crucial for Whiplash
At Keystone Medical Group, we emphasize the importance of having your symptoms evaluated by a trained personal injury doctor. David Buechner, MD, a leading expert in the area, often stresses the need for an accurate diagnosis following an auto accident. Without treatment, whiplash can lead to ongoing pain, discomfort, and even long-term mobility issues.
Whiplash injuries can sometimes cause more than just muscle soreness. Without proper treatment, the injury may worsen, leading to chronic pain or neurological issues. Consulting with a doctor early on can help ensure that any damage is treated before it becomes a long-term problem.
Treatment Options for Whiplash at Keystone Medical Group
At Keystone Medical Group, our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries. The treatment process may include:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and therapy help improve neck mobility, strength, and reduce pain.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: If you’re experiencing dizziness or balance issues as a result of your whiplash, vestibular rehab can help you regain your equilibrium.
- Posture Correction: Proper alignment and posture can relieve pressure from the neck and spine, reducing pain caused by whiplash.
- Neck Traction Therapy: Gentle stretching techniques may help relieve pain and improve range of motion in the neck.
Our goal is to help you return to normal function as quickly as possible with treatments that focus on addressing the root causes of your pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I tell if my neck pain is from whiplash?
Neck pain from whiplash often occurs after a car accident, and is typically accompanied by stiffness, headaches, or dizziness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation. - Can whiplash cause long-term problems?
Yes, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and neurological issues over time. That’s why it’s crucial to seek care early after an accident. - How long will it take to recover from whiplash?
The recovery timeline for whiplash varies depending on the severity of the injury. Many people begin feeling better after a few weeks of treatment, though more severe cases may require several months.
Schedule a Consultation with Keystone Medical Group
If you’ve been in a car accident and suspect you have whiplash, Lance Stevenson and the team at Keystone Medical Group are ready to help you. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and start the process of whiplash treatment. Don’t wait—addressing the injury early on is the best way to ensure long-term health and well-being.
