Whiplash Injuries in Traffic Accidents

Whiplash injuries, which are defined as the body involuntarily moving in a whip-like motion, can occur in traffic accidents, particularly those caused by rear-end collisions, leading to damage in the neck. Even if there are no fractures in the individual involved in the accident, experts from Anadolu Health Center indicate that soft tissue injuries in the neck can result from whiplash injuries.

In traffic accidents, as well as in sudden and harsh braking, involuntary movements of the body can cause neck injuries. This condition, known as whiplash, occurs especially in accidents where the waist is secured with a seatbelt, resulting in a violent backward and then forward motion of the head. In 90% of those who experience whiplash trauma, the involuntary movement of the body occurs at speeds of 0-20 km/h. In such cases, while no fractures may occur, there are soft tissue injuries in the neck. Additionally, the misalignment of several vertebrae, causing them to lock and not move, can also result. Whiplash injuries typically occur in car accidents but can also be seen in sports or falls, and these types of injuries cannot be identified with a single symptom. While tissue damage from whiplash injuries is quite common, muscle strain in the neck, joint dislocations, ligament damage, bleeding in muscles and joints, and excessive stretching of nerve tissue are also frequently observed. Similar injuries can occur in other parts of the body as well.

Traffic Accidents Cause Changes in the Lower Back and Neck

Among the complaints that arise as a result of traffic accidents, the most common include neck pain, dizziness, neck stiffness, headaches, lower back and back pain, arm pain and numbness, concentration difficulties, light sensitivity, forgetfulness, and stress. Symptoms indicating whiplash injuries may not appear immediately after the accident. Symptoms can start within a few days, but they can also trigger a condition that causes discomfort weeks or even years later.

Whiplash Injuries Are More Common in Middle-Aged Individuals

Overall, the incidence of whiplash injuries is lower in very young and very old people, but studies show that whiplash injuries are observed 17% less in individuals under 21 years old and 2% less in those over 60 compared to other age groups. Neck wear and tear are more commonly seen in older individuals, while children experience fewer issues due to their shorter neck muscles. According to studies from the UK, women are more affected by these types of accidents because they generally have thinner necks and less muscle mass.

Whiplash Injuries Can Cause Permanent Damage

Complaints that persist for six months after the injury are considered chronic. Research indicates that 30-40% of patients will experience chronic discomfort in various forms, and about 10% will endure severe permanent disorders that significantly affect their daily lives. Wear and tear in the neck region of individuals who have experienced whiplash occur six times faster than in a normal person. Additionally, these patients may experience neck pain and stiffness, referred pain in the back, shoulders, and arms, jaw joint pain, headaches, arthritis, straightening of the neck, narrowing of intervertebral spaces, cartilage wear, and herniated discs. A piece of worn vertebrae can touch a nerve, potentially causing numbness in the arm.

93% Success Rate with Chiropractic Treatment

According to a study conducted at the Orthopedic Clinic of Bristol University, chiropractic treatment has been successful in reducing pain in 93% of chronic whiplash patients. Chiropractic treatment is tailored to the individual. Patients who have experienced severe trauma and have fractures are not considered suitable for chiropractic treatment. The duration of treatment varies depending on factors such as age, occupation, and muscle structure, but in normal cases, positive developments are observed within four weeks. After the fourth week, the frequency of treatment is reduced, and when the patient feels completely well, the treatment frequency is decreased to once a mo

Last Updated Date: 15 January 2016

Publication Date: 16 October 2015