The Risks of Whiplash | Alaska Injury Lawyers

Whiplash is a neck injury that can result in serious harm. Whiplash injuries commonly occur during rear-end automobile collisions and contact sports such as football. Motions caused by accidents such as these can stretch your neck muscles and ligaments to a point beyond their regular range, causing damage.

Whiplash injuries can be minor, requiring just a few weeks of recovery, or more severe, which can result in the development of long-term issues including chronic pain. Most people who have suffered whiplash injuries recover within two to three months. However, some people have been known to feel pain in and around the neck area for years after the injury occurred.

What Are The Symptoms of Whiplash?

Generally, whiplash symptoms develop within the first 24 hours following the injury, although it may take longer for pain or stiffness to develop. Common symptoms consist of neck pain, headaches and dizziness; however some people also suffer from memory problems and sleep disturbances in severe cases. Other indications include blurred vision and a dull ringing in the ears as well as a limited range of mobility.

Whiplash treatment can range from over-the-counter pain relief to prescription medication and physical therapy. Applying ice to the affected neck muscles is advised for any degree of whiplash during the early recovery period in order to reduce inflammation. Applying heat can also be useful as it aids in relaxing the muscles to prevent further pain. Taking a warm shower is the best way to implement this.

Whiplash Statistics

According to the Virtual Medical Center, approximately 120,000 people a year experience whiplash in the United States. Whiplash is the most common injury to arise from automobile accidents and accounts for almost 20 percent of all reported injuries associated with automobile accidents.

Over 50 percent of people who have suffered from whiplash make a full recovery in a matter of weeks following treatment. However, roughly 30 percent of cases develop further and can result in chronic symptoms which may continue for months or even years. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct damage.

What If I Experience Whiplash?

If you have been involved in an accident that has resulted in whiplash and live within the state of Alaska, contact Barber and Associates, LLC Injury Attorneys. Based in Anchorage, Barber and Associates, LLC specialize in personal injury claims and have over 25 years of collective experience. With an excellent track record of successful claims, Barber and Associates, LLC also pride themselves on their dedication to the best interests of the client. Call Barber and Associates, LLC today for a free consultation.

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