Whiplash Awareness: Early Signs, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Whiplash is a common injury that can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, dizziness, and reduced range of motion in the neck. Many find that with proper treatment, such as pain management and targeted exercise, their discomfort fades within a few weeks. However, ignoring this injury can result in persistent neck pain and other complications that can impact daily life. The sooner you seek treatment for whiplash, the better the long-term results are likely to be.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash is caused by sudden, forceful movements and often occurs in rear-end car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and other types of trauma. Some people may not notice symptoms until several days after the incident. Early signs and symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Loss of range of motion in the neck
- Headaches
- Tenderness or pain in the shoulder or upper body
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Other symptoms that may seem unrelated to whiplash include:
- Blurry vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Poor sleep
- Irritability
- Depression
Treating Whiplash
It's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience neck pain or any symptoms of whiplash. This will help rule out broken bones or other injuries that could lead to more severe symptoms. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury, but it often includes gentle stretching, posture support, and other conservative measures. At Visco Spine & Joint Center, we take an integrative approach to treating whiplash. We offer:
- Cervical facet blocks
- Cervical medial branch blocks
- Cervical facet joint injections
- Cervical epidural steroid injections
- Cervical facet joint radiofrequency ablation
- Occipital nerve blocks
- Chiropractic care
- Physical therapy
Our specialty is in minimally invasive, non-surgical pain management tailored to each patient’s unique needs and recovery goals.
Schedule an Appointment with an Interventional Pain Management Physician
Whiplash is a common injury, but it affects everyone differently. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications. At Visco Spine & Joint Center, our top interventional pain management physicians can assess your neck and develop a custom treatment plan to best address your pain. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Hoboken, Jersey City, Bayonne, or Wyckoff, NJ.
