Whiplash symptoms: 9 warning signs you shouldn’t overlook

Whiplash is more common than you may think. Each year, between 16 and 200 people per 100,000 experience this injury. While car accidents often cause whiplash, it could also occur from any sudden jolt. This injury can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which may appear mild at first but worsen over time. Sometimes, symptoms can resolve on their own, but many of them are more serious and need medical attention. 

Knowing what these symptoms are and getting treatment early may prevent long-term complications. If you notice multiple or persistent warning signs, they may indicate something more serious, and it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Physical therapy often plays a key role in the recovery process by helping to ease pain, strengthen muscles and improve range of motion. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore nine warning signs of whiplash you shouldn’t overlook.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is an injury that happens when the head and neck suddenly jerk forward and snap backward, which is similar to the movement of a whip cracking. This quick jolt can strain or tear the neck muscles. While usually associated with car accidents, whiplash may occur in other ways. Playing sports, going on an amusement park ride, falling, or horseback riding could also cause this injury.

Whiplash symptoms

Whiplash symptoms can vary depending on how severe the injury is. Sometimes they appear quickly, but they may also take a few hours or days to develop. If you’ve experienced whiplash, it’s important to know which signs to look out for. When you notice your symptoms early, you can prevent them from worsening. Getting treatment will help you recover faster and reduce the risk of chronic pain.

It’s possible to experience only one of these symptoms, but most people notice multiple whiplash signs. If you have many concerning or persistent issues, it’s probably best to seek medical attention.

The following are nine whiplash symptoms:

1. Headaches

It’s easy to think a headache is harmless and will subside without treatment. However, after whiplash, it could be more serious. Headaches, along with symptoms like brain fog, could indicate nerve damage or a fracture.

2. Fatigue 

Tiredness can occur after whiplash, but it could signal a bigger issue if it persists. When fatigue lasts several weeks without improvement, you should see a doctor. It could indicate muscle strain, nerve damage, a concussion, or automatic nervous system dysfunction.

3. Blurred vision 

Problems seeing clearly may indicate eye strain, nerve damage, or a traumatic brain injury that can occur alongside whiplash. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if blurred vision occurs. 

4. Muscle spasms 

Contractions can happen suddenly and cause pain. While they can subside quickly, they could indicate nerve damage. Muscle spasms can make it difficult to move the neck and worsen pain. 

5. Pain or stiffness in the neck 

It’s common to experience this symptom after whiplash. While it may resolve by itself, there may be soft tissue damage in the muscles, ligaments or tendons. If left untreated, it could lead to limited motion and chronic neck pain.

6. Limited range of motion 

Movement can be difficult after an accident that causes whiplash. If you experience this symptom, it’s important to see a doctor. Limited range of motion could be a sign of muscle strain, ligament injury, a herniated disc or misaligned vertebrae. 

7. Dizziness 

Swaying or spinning sensations could be symptoms of cervical vertigo. In this condition, neck movements trigger dizziness. Vertigo could also indicate nerve damage or a concussion. 

8. Numbness 

Tingling in your back, neck, shoulders, or arms is a serious whiplash symptom and could be nerve damage. If you experience numbness after an accident, you should see a doctor immediately.

9. Changes in bowel or urinary function 

Issues with bowel or urinary control could indicate a serious problem. Nerve damage or a severe spinal cord injury connected to whiplash can cause these issues. If you notice any bowel or urinary changes, seek medical attention.

Relieve your whiplash symptoms at KC Rehab

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, numbness, or a lack of motion, don’t ignore it. Whiplash symptoms could point to serious underlying issues, and you should get treated immediately. While every injury is different, physical therapy can usually support the recovery process, allowing you to feel better as soon as possible.

At KC Rehab, we can help identify the root causes of your symptoms and personalize a treatment plan that’s right for you. With our proven techniques, we have seen patients improve their range of motion, ease chronic pain and rebuild strength.

Ready to relieve your whiplash symptoms? The sooner you start treatment, the better. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.