Most people have heard of whiplash but, what is it really? Whiplash is a common tern used to describe the pain someone feels in their neck after a jarring. A very common cause of whiplash would be a car accident where the injured person is bumped from behind. When this happens the tendons, ligaments and muscles in the neck a stretched and contracted very quickly. This quick movement creates microscopic tears in the soft tissue that create the pain. A physician may refer to this as a cervical sprain or strain.
Whiplash from a car accident can become a bigger problem if someone has a pre-existing condition in their neck. Image that someone has had a disc fused in their neck and is in a fender bender. The damage that can be caused from this type of incident could be catastrophic. If you are injured in a car accident you should definitely talk with a personal injury attorney. They will be able to assess your situation to see if there was negligence by the other driver.
Prevention is always the best way to protect yourself. Seat belts are always a good idea but make sure to have your head rest at the proper height. That will help to protect your neck if you are hit from behind.
