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5 steps for treating whiplash

by | Feb 23, 2018 | Car Accidents |

The most common type of motor vehicle accident injury relates to whiplash. That’s because, during a car accident, the gravitational forces invariably whip the head and neck around violently. This can cause the tearing of muscles and ligaments, which can create a stiff neck, headaches and extreme pain.

If you’re suffering from whiplash after a motor vehicle crash, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Evaluate whether you need medical care: Not all cases of whiplash will require medical care from a doctor. However, patients should seek immediate attention from their medical provider in cases where they experience significant pain following an accident, the neck pain affects their arms or legs or the pain includes numbness, tingling, headaches, nausea, visual problems or weaknesses.
  2. Relax your muscles: The most important thing to do following your accident is to help your muscles relax. Putting ice on the painful area of your neck is excellent for this. As your neck starts to heal, moist or dry heat can also help relieve tension.
  3. Take a pain reliever: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen make for excellent and safe pain relievers that can assist in the reduction of your whiplash pain.
  4. Don’t strain: You’ll want to give your neck as much rest as possible. Using a little pillow or rolled towel to support the nape of your neck while lying down is a great way to help this. Also, take it easy. No lifting heavy objects and — if you do any kind of physical activity — be gentle and aware.
  5. Get physical therapy: Physical therapy sessions can be a great way to help bring strength and flexibility back to your neck.

Are you ready to get the medical help you need for your whiplash injuries after a car crash? One thing you might want to do is consider how you will pay for medical treatment. By reviewing the facts of your case, you might be able to determine that you have a viable claim to pursue financial compensation relating to your medical care.

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