Whiplash is a very common injury claim following auto accidents. The symptoms are typically associated with the neck, but the true damage can extend far beyond the impact area. More serious cases can result in torn or strained chest muscles or even shoulder tendon injuries. This could actually indicate a neck sprain in association with a whiplash issue. Of course, the violent snapping of the neck can result in nerve injury as well.
The difference between whiplash and neck sprain
Whiplash injuries are typically directly focused on the neck area. The result can be difficulty turning the head and pain due to damage in the neck area, including nerve and cartilage damage. These are common injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents. Serious whiplash injuries can pull tendons and muscles deep in the upper chest and shoulder regions without necessarily resulting in damage to the rotator cuff. The injuries can indeed have a direct correlation, but whiplash concerns the symptoms around the spinal cord.
Potential remedies for whiplash
One of the first remedies for whiplash injury is applying an ice pack to the primary area of pain along the neck area of the spine for the first couple of days. Heat therapy should be used later even if pain is not persistent. Diagnostic tests can include not only X-rays of the neck area but also a CT scan, which could reveal an injury when headaches are occurring. If pain persists you should see your primary care provider or a chiropractor.
How personal injury attorneys may help
Cases of whiplash are common injuries familiar to personal injury attorneys who deal with motor vehicle accident cases. An attorney may explain the connection between neck pain and other symptoms and help clients understand how neck pain can be the result of a whiplash injury. This may be relevant when maximizing compensation claims.