Picture this: it's your typical daily commute, savoring the aroma of your freshly brewed Tim’s double double, munching on a delicious sausage and bacon breakfast biscuit – after all, it's Friday! You hit that pesky red light, as always. Reaching for your coffee, you take a sip... ahh.
Suddenly, a loud bang! Before you know what’s happening, you're thrust into the intersection, facing oncoming traffic. In an instant, your head feels compressed, as if being crushed by a vice. You feel like someone is driving a sharp knife into your neck and middle back. The pain is like nothing you've ever experienced.
As you can imagine, I've heard variations of this story one too many times. Whiplash injuries from a car collision can throw a significant curveball into your life plans.
What's worse than a car crash?
A man gambling his life savings, don't gamble with your health after a car crash!
1 in 3 people hurt in a car collision end up dealing with chronic pain! It's like rolling a dice – if you roll a 1 or a 6, chronic pain is in the cards. Would you take that bet? I certainly wouldn’t.
Whiplash After A Car Crash: Taking Action is crucial!
That's why taking action soon after a car collision is crucial. I recommend seeing someone within 10 days of the collision. Not just a hospital visit to rule out fractures.Someone who can address your needs beyond fractures.
The hospital just make sure you aren't dying. They don't treat your other injuries.
How do I know? My wife, eight months pregnant with our second, Archer, got rear-ended by someone named "Destiny." Fate, indeed.
We spent six hours at the hospital monitoring the baby. Fortunately, he was fine - and is now a big trouble maker! But when I asked the nurse about chiropractic or physiotherapy or further checks, the response was an offhand, "oh, um, yeah, you can do that if you feel like you need to.”
Are you kidding me?
With 1 in 3 developing with chronic pain, "if you need to" is not good advice. Trust me; you need to!
Understanding Whiplash Symptoms After Car Collision
Whiplash symptoms can manifest in various ways, and it's crucial to be aware of common signs, whether immediate or delayed. After a collision, adrenaline is pumping, and you're in 'fight or flight' mode. Your body goes numb, but once that wears off, sometimes after a few days, symptoms kick in.
You might feel like you slept funny or are a bit sore. But the pain is because of the accident. These symptoms can be vague and overlooked when more obvious ones are present.
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Common symptoms of whiplash include persistent headaches, dizziness, vertigo, jaw pain or locking, neck pain, and stiffness. Numbness, tingling, and pain into your shoulders, arms, hands and even legs its not uncommon, either.
The Long-Term Consequence of A Car Collision
Whiplash is concerning due to its potential to lead to chronic pain. Studies show that approximately 1 in 3 individuals injured in car accidents continue to experience pain long after the initial collision.
Chronic pain isn't something you want to deal with – it affects your life, relationships, and overall well-being.
I've seen patients with chronic pain after a vehicle collision, dealing with constant headaches, back pain, neck pain, and more.
Whiplash Affects Your Life - And Not In A Good Way
Pain is one thing; the real issue is how it impacts your life. You're constantly tired, can't work - at least not how you are used to, if at all-, and relationships suffer. Chronic pain significantly affects your quality of life.
While there are ways to help those with chronic pain, treating the problem before it becomes chronic is the best approach. Delaying treatment increases the risk of chronic pain.
I’ve seen so many people end up with chronic pain because their situation was mis managed.
That's why I'm passionate about getting people help quickly!
Take Action Today!
The key message is to take prompt action if you've been in a car accident and suspect a whiplash injury. Even if you're unsure, get checked out. With 1 in 3 facing chronic pain, it's not a risk you want to take lightly.
Your Recovery Blueprint:
I invite you to request your RECOVERY BLUEPRINT, a free 15-minute phone call with Dr. Joseph Tanti. No obligations, no pressure. This call is designed to help you take the first step toward recovery. Ask any questions, discuss concerns, and receive specific advice on your next best steps.
While it doesn't create a doctor-patient relationship, and my typical rate is around $100 for this time, this call is yours for free.
Why?
Because you read this article, and I despise the mis-management of people who have been in a collision.
You deserve clarity and support and direction on wha you need to do moving forward.
Around the 14-minute mark, I'll ask if there's anything else I can do for you. If you'd like to schedule an in-office appointment, we can discuss it.
If not, say "No thanks, I'm good," and take what you've learned and go out and make a full recovery on your own!
Like I said, no pressure. I just want you to have the RECOVERY BLUEPRINT that you need to make a full recovery.
Remember, early intervention is crucial in preventing chronic pain. Don't let one moment define your life. Take action today, request your RECOVERY BLUEPRINT, and let's start your journey toward a pain-free future. Your health and well-being are worth it.
References:
Are People With Whiplash-Associated Neck Pain Different From People With Nonspecific Neck Pain?
Ricci Anstey, Alice Kongsted, Steven Kamper, and Mark J. Hancock
Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy 2016 46:10, 894-901