How Long Does It Take to Recover from Whiplash? Omaha Injury Attorney Has the Answer
It is a common misconception that whiplash is a minor injury that will heal without medical treatment. Although this may be true for mild cases, moderate to severe whiplash can cause chronic pain, and if the patient does not rest, the symptoms can worsen and possibly cause a permanent disability.
If you suffered whiplash in a car accident, you may be wondering when your symptoms will dissipate—especially if you are sidelined from work due to the injury. Although each case is unique, the symptoms can last from six weeks to nine months, and some patients suffer chronic pain for up to a decade.
People who sustain neck injuries in motor-vehicle wrecks often face overwhelming debt due to lost income and medical bills. In fact, unpaid healthcare expenses are the primary cause of bankruptcy in the United States; however, if your whiplash was caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to restore financial stability by filing a personal injury claim.
An injury attorney from Rensch & Rensch Law can help you fight for the maximum payout and avoid costly mistakes during the claims process. We have more than 45 years of combined legal experience. Call 1-800-471-4100 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an accident lawyer in Omaha.
How Common Is Whiplash?
According to RightDiagnosis.com, nearly 120,000 people suffer whiplash each year in the United States. The number-one cause of whiplash is rear-end collisions.
What Are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
If you suffer a broken bone or deep laceration in a car accident, it probably won’t take long for you to suspect that something is wrong; however, the symptoms of whiplash are often subtle at first. The full extent of the injury might not be apparent for several hours or even days after a crash.
As such, it is important that you visit your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms of whiplash—no matter how mild they might seem:
- Pain between your shoulder blades;
- Pain in your lower back;
- Neck pain;
- Numbness or tingling;
- Headaches;
- Difficulty concentrating;
- Sleep problems; or
Treatments for Whiplash
According to WebMD, your doctor may prescribe the following treatments for whiplash:
- Apply ice to your neck immediately after the accident. This will reduce swelling and pain. Continue to apply ice every three to four hours for 15 minutes. Continue this regimen for two to three days;
- Take painkillers that your doctor recommends such as NSAIDs. These will also help with swelling;
- Wear a collar or neck brace to avoid reinjuring your neck; and
- Consider ultrasound and massage therapy.
If you suffered whiplash in a crash with a drunk, distracted, or negligent driver, you should not have to pay for healthcare expenses and lost wages out of your own pocket. Turn to Rensch & Rensch Law for comprehensive legal guidance.
Our attorneys have litigated more than 100 jury trials, and we will give your case the individual attention that it deserves. Call 1-800-471-4100 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an injury attorney in Omaha.
