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A commonly known accident, whiplash can occur in many situations including car accidents, sports accidents, and other traumatic events. The injury occurs when the neck is jolted suddenly in a forward then backward motion, resembling the cracking of a whip.  There are several symptoms that can come along with the injury. Some common, and others not so much.

Common Symptoms of Whiplash

There are several symptoms that are common to experience if an individual has a whiplash injury. The most common symptoms to watch for in whiplash include:

– Headaches radiating from the base of the skull

– Increasing pain in the neck

– Limited range of motion in the neck

– Pain or numbness in arms, hands, or extremities

– Upper back, shoulder, or arm pain

Some individuals with a whiplash injury may experience the following, not so common symptoms:

– Dizziness

– Difficulty with remembering things

– Change in sleeping pattern

– Tingling in arms or hands

– Irritability

– Confusion

Diagnosing Whiplash

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should contact a doctor as soon as possible. A health professional is the only person who can diagnose whiplash accurately. They are also able to rule out other conditions such as tissue damage or broken bones that may be exacerbating symptoms. Doctors may order tests to examine the neck.

Tests may include:

– X=ray

– Computerized Tomography (CT) scan

– Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan

Keep in mind that it is extremely important to contact your doctor as soon as possible after the injury occurs. Waiting to get treatment can only make the symptoms worsen. If you have been in an accident and are experiencing symptoms of whiplash, contact the Orthopaedic Specialty Group. The Orthopaedic Specialty Group. is a group of seven orthopaedic offices throughout Fairfield County, CT. The Orthopaedic Specialty Group also runs one of the only after-hours orthopaedic walk-in clinics as an affordable alternative to the ER.