Reduce the Risk of Whiplash

While whiplash is a commonly recognised condition, not many people know about all of the causes of the affliction or the preventative measures they can take to minimise their potential suffering. Whiplash is the name of a condition which causes pain in the neck as a result of damage to the ligaments, tendons or muscles in the neck - this harm is normally done when the neck suffers sudden trauma, but whiplash can also be caused by long-term damage to the neck.

The nature of the injury means that it is frequently associated with car accidents, although it can also often be caused by sharp or sudden blows to the head that put unexpected strain on the structure of the neck or even during sporting exercises such as diving.

When an impending impact is anticipated there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of suffering from whiplash. You may have heard that going loose or floppy is the best way to avoid hurting yourself on impact, but this does not hold true for car crashes. Instead you want the muscles of your spine to be clenched so that they can better protect the important cord within.

If possible, prepare yourself for a crash by bracing your hands against the steering wheel or dashboard and press your feet into the floor. Try and force your head and neck back against your headrest and this will help to reduce the risk of your head being jerked forward and back quickly and therefore will lessen the risks of whiplash.

Another important preparation is the proper adjustment of your headrest. Whenever you are sitting in car, ensure that your headrest is properly lined up with the middle of your head. If it is too low it will not be able to do its job properly by helping to protect your neck from whiplash.

If an accident that is suspected to have caused whiplash has occurred, an ice pack pressed to the neck will help relive inflammation and can help for up to 24 hours after the incident. Aside from the application of an ice pack, and painkillers when needed, treatment for whiplash includes a range of exercises to strengthen and gently stretch the muscles.

Those who have suffered whiplash after a car accident that was not their fault could also have the opportunity to claim whiplash compensation to help them recover and tide them over until they can fully return to employment or their normal daily life.
---
Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.