Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly forced backward and then forward, putting the cervical spine through rapid acceleration and deceleration.
Whiplash injury often happens during rear-end car accidents, but it can also result from sports accidents, physical abuse, or falls.
The sudden movement can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness. It can also damage the intervertebral joints, discs, and nerve roots, resulting in numbness or weakness in the arms and hands.
In severe cases, whiplash can lead to cognitive issues like memory problems and difficulty concentrating.
Common Causes of Whiplash
Whiplash can result from various situations, such as car accidents, sports injuries, falls, or physical abuse. The sudden, forceful movement of the head backward and then forward can strain the neck’s muscles and ligaments, and may also damage intervertebral joints, discs, and nerve roots.
Here is a list of common causes of whiplash:
- Rear-end car accidents
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Cycling accidents
- Physical abuse
- Industrial accidents
- Slips and trips
- Amusement park rides
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Whiplash Symptoms
Whiplash can manifest differently in each case, with varying intensities depending on the severity of the injury, the speed of impact, and the individual’s health.
Some common causes of whiplash symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain or numbness in the arms or hands
- Reduced range of motion in the neck
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
- Shoulder pain and tenderness
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
