Whiplash is a neck injury that can occur when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forwards. This injury is quite common after a car accident and can be very painful.

Take a look at the symptoms, long-term complications, and treatment options for whiplash.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Neck pain is the most common symptom of whiplash. However, you may also experience the following:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

These symptoms can occur immediately after the accident or may take days or even weeks to develop. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor right away.

They may likely ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. Your doctor might also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, to rule out other injuries.

Possible Long-Term Effects of Whiplash

While most people recover from whiplash within a few weeks or months, some may experience long-term effects.

• Chronic neck pain
• Limited range of motion in the neck
• Tingling or numbness in the arms

If you've been diagnosed with whiplash, follow your doctor's instructions and give yourself time to heal. With proper care, you can make a full recovery.

However, if you experience any lasting effects, be sure to discuss them with your doctor to receive the appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for Whiplash

Treatment for whiplash may include neck adjustments to relieve pressure on the nerves. These adjustments involve applying gentle pressure to the joints in the neck. This pressure helps improve your range of motion and relieve pain. Additionally, neck adjustments can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

While rest and ice may help reduce symptoms in the short-term, soft tissue therapy can be an effective treatment for long-term relief. Soft tissue therapy is a massage that targets the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck.

This therapy helps release tension and speed up healing by applying pressure to these tissues. A licensed massage therapist or physical therapist can perform soft tissue therapy. In most cases, the treatment sessions can be performed a few times per week.

Another treatment option for whiplash is therapeutic stretching. Therapeutic stretching involves slowly and gently moving the neck through a range of motion. This treatment helps loosen up the muscles and ligaments, reducing pain and stiffness. In addition, therapeutic stretching can help improve your range of motion and prevent future injuries. 

With regular treatment, most people begin to experience relief from whiplash symptoms within a few weeks. If you need auto injury therapy, call a medical professional in your area.