Being involved in a fender bender often seems to be more of an inconvenience than an emergency, at least in regards to the health of those involved. Unfortunately, the type of slow-speed impact that typically occurs during this type of traffic accident can cause serious spine and skeletal injuries, even when no immediate pain is felt.
Passengers and drivers involved in fender benders may not even feel any ill effects for days or even weeks afterward. If you or someone you love has been involved in a fender bender in the past and are now experiencing pain or discomfort of an unknown origin, the following information may help you find the relief you need.
Understanding the symptoms of whiplash
When whiplash presents immediately after a traffic crash, the symptoms are rarely ignored. But when the symptoms do not present quickly, it can be as far more difficult to recognize and associate them correctly with a previous vehicle accident. Whiplash symptoms that appear long after a fender bender can include:
- more frequent headaches, especially those that originate at the base of the skull
- back pain or stiffness that makes movement uncomfortable
- difficulty or inability to move the head to look back over one or both shoulders
Additionally, many whiplash sufferers may find themselves dealing with less notable symptoms, including a gradual decrease in motion that becomes more apparent over the course of a normal daily routine.
Additional symptoms that must never be ignored
In addition to whiplash, those who have been involved in a fender bender are also at risk for concussions, neck strains and even fractures. Symptoms that indicate more serious injuries can include nausea, blurred vision, and fatigue. Like whiplash injuries, these symptoms do not always present immediately upon being involved in a traffic accident, but should never be ignored.
Appropriate treatment after a fender bender
Those involved in slow-speed accidents capable of causing whiplash and other injuries may not feel like they need immediate care after an accident, especially if no symptoms are noted at the time. In order to lessen the risk of future pain and discomfort, those who do not seek immediate medical care for a potential whiplash injury should consider seeing an auto accident chiropractor as soon as possible afterward.
These specialized caregivers are trained to recognize small abnormalities in the muscles, tendons, and bones most often affected by slow-speed traffic accidents. If these abnormalities are found, auto accident chiropractors can work with their patient to limit the damage, control the pain, and speed recovery. Contact a clinic, like Atlanta Personal Injury Clinics, for more help.
Share