Whiplash Defined and its Symptoms

Following an accident the symptoms of whiplash may not present for weeks, or even months. To avoid long term suffering or scar tissue formation we recommend if you've been in an accident or suspect you may have whiplash, make an appointment to be assessed as soon as possible. Whiplash is commonly received by passengers in a motor vehicle that is struck from behind by another vehicle. Suddenly the head "jerks" back and forth (and is "whipped") beyond its normal range of motion. This results in the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine and head to be overstretched or torn. Discs between spinal bones can bulge, tear or rupture. Vertebrae can be forced out of their normal position resulting in pain and nerve damage. Most people are surprised to receive a significant whiplash injury in a low speed, low impact accident. Research shows that increased vehicle "crushing" (as seen with higher-speed impacts) absorbs some of the shock of the impact and can lessen injury to the vehicle’s occupants. When "crushing" does not occur as happens at low speed, nearly all of the shock is transferred to the driver and passengers.
 
Whiplash symptoms may include headache, dizziness, blurred vision, pain in the shoulder, arms or hands, reduced ability to turn and bend, and even low back and leg problems. These symptoms may appear immediately following the accident or weeks after the injury. Pain can be a poor indicator with whiplash, as symptoms may not be present immediately following the accident.