Whiplash is the common term given to injury or damage to the soft tissue surrounding the neck and shoulders. Usually associated with rear impact vehicle collisions, whiplash can be painful and debilitating, even after a prolonged period of time. So if you have suffered a whiplash injury in a vehicle collision or though other means, how is your injury likely to be treated?



The result of a whiplash injury will cause strain to the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the neck, shoulders and upper back. Although the injury doesn't manifest fully until up to 72 hours after the accident, the damaged tissue begins to swell slowly immediately after impact. As the swelling increases, it puts pressure on the joints of the neck and shoulders, causing them to ache. Mobility may be restricted and other common effects of whiplash include headaches, blurred vision and possibly a 'pins and needles' sensation in the arms and hands.

The first thing to do is immediately contact your GP or an Accident and Emergency department. Although the injuries are often minor, it is essential to ensure that no greater damage has been caused to this delicate area of the body. It is also essential to consult with a medical professional at the initial stages, particularly if you intend to pursue a claim for the injury. They will be able to provide you with a full medical report of your condition. A doctor will diagnose whiplash through the use of a detailed examination of the affected area, taking into account the cause of the injury. X-rays and CT scans may be taken to ensure that there is no fracture or dislocation of the cervical spine.

A whiplash injury is a soft tissue injury. Applying an ice pack to the affected area will help to reduce the initial swelling. As the tissue swells, it releases chemicals that irritate the nerve endings. It is this irritation which causes the longer lasting pain associated with whiplash. This can be combated by the use of paracetamol and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. As with all medication, a doctor should be consulted before taking any painkillers to avoid potential problems.

Unfortunately, for a small number of people, whiplash 'syndrome' can persist for weeks or even months before subsiding, and even then there can be residual, long-term neck discomfort. In cases like this, various alternative treatments can be incorporated into an holistic treatment of the condition. This can include physiotherapy, chiropractory and even acupuncture, which is available in certain cases on the NHS.

If you are planning to pursue legal action as the result of a whiplash injury, your legal advisor may be able to incorporate longer term treatment such as this into your claim, cutting down waiting time to see NHS provided services. They may also employ the services of an independent medical advisor, who may suggest further treatment to alleviate the injury. Again, this would be incorporated into your claim and you would be compensated according to the severity of your injury. That is why it is so important to make your GP or Accident and Emergency department your first port of call after a whiplash injury. The information they provide will determine not only the best course of treatment for your injury, but also how you go about pressing a claim. Talk to your legal representative for further information.