Can Whiplash Injuries Cause Permanent Damage?

 Posted on August 07, 2023 in Car Accidents

Whiplash is an injury that occurs when the head moves back and forth suddenly, placing strain on the neck. Whiplash injuries can take place in car accidents, slip and fall accidents, or other situations. While whiplash will often involve temporary pain and discomfort, there are some cases where these injuries can cause permanent damage.

The Nature of Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash typically occurs when the head is forcefully jerked in one direction and then snapped back in the opposite direction. This sudden movement puts strain on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. Symptoms of whiplash may include:

• Pain and stiffness

  Whiplash will often lead to stiffness in the neck and pain in the areas surrounding the neck and shoulders. This can make it difficult for a person to move their head as they perform daily activities.

• Headaches

  Many individuals who suffer from whiplash experience severe head pain as a result of muscle tension or nerve irritation.

• Dizziness

  Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded after sustaining a whiplash injury, and their balance and coordination may be affected.

• Blurred vision

  Strain in the muscles in the neck and face may eye coordination and lead to vision problems.

• Fatigue

  Whiplash injuries will often cause a person to feel tired or fatigued during their recovery period.

In most cases, these symptoms begin within hours to days following an accident. The severity and duration of these symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the speed at which a collision occurred and the position of the head and neck at the time of impact.

Treatment for Whiplash Injuries

In many instances, whiplash injuries heal within a relatively short period after a person receives proper treatment and rest. Most individuals who sustain whiplash injuries will recover fully within a few weeks or months. During this time, medical professionals may recommend treatments such as:

• Pain medication

  Over-the-counter or prescription drugs can help manage pain and discomfort while the body heals.

• Physical therapy exercises

  Stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can aid in reducing pain and restoring mobility.

• Assistive devices

  Certain types of tools and equipment can be used to help a person complete their daily tasks while minimizing discomfort and ensuring that they can heal properly.

Potential Long-Term Consequences of Whiplash

While most whiplash injuries will fully heal within a matter of months, there are some cases where people may experience long-term effects or even permanent impairments. Potential complications of whiplash may include:

• Chronic pain

  Some individuals who suffer from moderate-to-severe whiplash injuries may develop chronic neck pain that lasts beyond the expected recovery period.

• Headaches/migraines

  Ongoing pain or debilitating symptoms of migraines may persist in some cases, continuing to affect a person for months or years.

• Nerve damage

  If whiplash caused nerves in the neck to become damaged or severed, this may lead to numbness, tingling, or even paralysis in the shoulders and arms.

• Cognitive dysfunction

  In some cases, whiplash may lead to problems with memory, concentration, and other cognitive functioning.

• Lingering muscle discomfort

  Slow healing of damaged muscles can lead to ongoing tightness in the neck and shoulder areas that may restrict a person’s range of motion and limit the types of tasks they can perform.

• Dizziness

  Whiplash injuries can sometimes lead to vertigo or ongoing issues with dizziness, which can limit a person’s ability to move about and complete daily tasks.

Contact Our Westchester County Whiplash Injury Attorneys

If you or someone you know has sustained a whiplash injury, it is crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. At Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC, our Greenwich personal injury lawyers have years of experience representing clients in injury cases involving whiplash and other forms of serious bodily harm. We understand the pain and frustration associated with recovering from a whiplash injury, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process while advocating for your rights. To schedule your free consultation, please contact us at 203-661-6000.