Los Angeles Injury Lawyer Blog

Whiplash, a potentially serious injury, is characterized by neck pain and stiffness experienced after a sudden or strenuous injury to your neck. Also known as neck sprain or neck strain, whiplash occurs during motor vehicle accidents, slips or falls, assaults or sporting activities. In yesterday’s blog, we wrote about Part 1 of Whiplash- Causes and Symptoms. Today, our blog discusses the diagnosis of whiplash, along with neck pain treatment and prevention.

Whiplash Diagnosis
If you believe you have sustained whiplash from a car accident or other injury, consult a doctor immediately. After taking a medical history, your doctor will perform a careful head and neck examination. The doctor may order X-rays, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a CT (computerized tomography) scan to see if any neck bones have been broken and to search for other injuries.

Neck Pain and Whiplash Treatment
Though your pain may subside earlier, your neck can take up to three months to heal completely. If your whiplash is severe, recovery time may take up to a year.

In the meantime, there are many things you can do at home to improve whiplash. Here are some treatment suggestions:

• An ice pack (or cold pack) on your neck for 10 to 15 minutes at a time for 2 or 3 days can ease pain. You may also try switching between hot and cold. If you have swelling, do not use heat.


• An orthopedic pillow or tightly rolled towel placed under your neck instead of your pillow can provide relief for sleeping.


• Wear a soft foam collar. They support your neck and are available at drugstores. The collar should be used for temporary treatment, unless you are told otherwise by your doctor.


• Pain medicine such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can ease your discomfort. Muscles relaxers or stronger pain medication may be prescribed by your doctor for those suffering from severe or long-lasting pain.


• Stay away from work or activities that include heavy lifting or sports which require head movement.


• Physical therapy as prescribed by a doctor helps many whiplash sufferers.


• After your pain goes away, perform gentle neck and back-stretching exercises, as prescribed by your physician or physical therapist.

Whiplash Prevention

• Always wear your seatbelt to prevent whiplash while driving. Also make sure that your headrest is adjusted to the appropriate height (the middle should be flush with the tops of your ears).


• The effectiveness of airbags preventing or minimizing whiplash is still being studied.

Let us help you. If you or a family member have suffered whiplash due to an accident or at work injury, please speak with an attorney. If you are in located in California, call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP for a free and confidential consultation at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We are experienced, and we know your rights.

Photo by PDAgrl