WHIPLASH INJURY SYMPTOMS - COMPENSATION CLAIMS
This condition otherwise known as "acceleration/decoration syndrome" is characterised by symptoms that occur following damage to the neck as a result of a sudden strain affecting the discs, muscles, nerves or tendons caused by rapid acceleration or deceleration of the head often as a result of a road traffic accident. Whiplash injury symptoms may be present immediately or may develop gradually and can include :-
- pain or stiffness of the neck, back, jaw, shoulders, or arms
- loss of feeling, or burning or prickling in an arm or hand
- headache and dizziness
- blurred vision
- balance problems
- nausea or vomiting
- psychological conditions including memory loss, concentration impairment, nervousness, irritability, sleep disturbances, fatigue and depression
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Spine & Neck
This is one of the strongest parts of the body constructed of bones and discs surrounded by strong ligaments and powerful muscles. Except in the case of vulnerable adults, which include those with a pre-existing neck or back problem and the elderly, most road traffic accidents are not traumatic enough to cause permanent damage to the spine and surgery for these injuries is very rarely necessary. Whiplash usually affects just the soft tissues of the neck which have a natural ability to heal and restore themselves. One troublesome whiplash injury symptom that gives sufferers cause for concern relates to shooting pains or tingling sensations in the arms usually due to minor nerve root irritation at the point where the nerve joins the spinal cord which clears without intervention rather than a more serious slipped disc or trapped nerve.
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X-rays & MRI scans
X-rays and MRI scans are occasionally useful as they may reveal long term degenerative changes including 'arthritis' which can have implications in regard to the overall recovery period following an injury. Arthritis may manifest itself as a whiplash injury symptom and doctors often have difficulty in pinpointing the source of pain making an X-ray or an MRI scan a useful diagnostic tool.
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Treatment
These injuries can be very painful especially in the short term however consideration should be given to :-
- neck exercise
- Staying active
- controlling the pain
- painkillers
- use of a collar
- application of heat and cold
- manipulation
- traction
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Stress
Anxiety, stress and muscle tension can have the effect of increasing the amount of discomfort. Tension can cause muscle spasm which when coupled with the injury can be extremely painful. Stress can aggravate or prolong pain and it is important that these specific whiplash injury symptoms are recognised early and that appropriate treatment for the psychological component is obtained from your doctor.
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Compensation
The amount of compensation payable depends on the severity of the injury, the recovery period and whether or not there are any permanent residual symptoms. In addition to compensation for pain and suffering a claim can be made for most other losses including loss of past and future wages.
HELPLINE 0844 332 0553
Legal Advice
Our specialist personal injury solicitors deal with road traffic accident claims on a risk free no win no fee basis. Compensation is paid in full with no deductions and you are not required to fund or finance the claim in any respect. If you would like free advice from a member of the Law Society panel of personal injury experts just use the helpline or complete the contact form and a solicitor with telephone you with no further obligation.
In the case of CICA claims terms will vary and in the case of MIB claims terms may vary.