Do you know how to treat whiplash?

Although whiplash is typically associated with car accidents, this injury can result from any type of impact that causes your head and neck to jerk. With stretching and tearing of your muscles and tendons, there’s a good chance you’ll experience immediate pain and discomfort.

Some other symptoms of whiplash include:

• Decreased range of motion
• Tightness in and around the neck area
• Tenderness
• Headaches, particularly at the base of the skull

Whiplash is a serious injury that requires immediate medical attention. Some of the best treatment strategies include:

• Ice. Icing the area immediately following the accident can help reduce pain and swelling.

• Collar or neck brace. Your doctor may suggest support for several days or longer to give your neck time to heal. However, wearing it too long can weaken the muscles, thus causing long-term health concerns.

• Moist heat. After icing for several days, heat can help relax the area and promote healing.

It’s important to note that whiplash is often associated with other injuries, e.g., concussions. This is why it’s so important to receive medical treatment immediately following your accident.

If you suffer whiplash or any other type of neck injury on the job, don’t hesitate to report the accident to your employer and receive immediate medical attention.

From there, follow the advice of your doctors, as they can help you follow the path toward a full recovery. This may mean taking time away from work in order to give your injury enough time to heal.

If you’re unable to work for an extended period, learn more about filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.