Common Treatment Plans for Whiplash and Related Costs
Unfortunately, whiplash has been the butt of many jokes regarding car accidents and lawsuits. While people may joke about whiplash, the fact is that it’s more than just a pain in the neck. Anyone who has recently been in a car accident should understand what whiplash is, how they can treat it, how much treatment costs, and the value of an experienced Round Rock car wreck lawyer.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury to the soft tissue around the spine. It can also include injury to part of the joints and discs within the neck. Whiplash occurs when someone’s head is thrown quickly forward and then backward, or vice versa. As such, the most common cause of whiplash is car accidents, particularly rear-end and head-on collisions.
The symptoms of whiplash can vary depending on the specifics of the injury. However, someone may have whiplash if he or she has recently had an accident and experiences:
- Pain and/or stiffness of the neck
- Disruptions to sleep, tiredness
- Pain in the shoulder
- Lower back pain
- Pain or numbness in the hands or arms
- Dizziness
These symptoms may point to many different types of injuries. That’s why doctors use tests such as X Rays, CT scans, and MRIs to get a better picture of the injury and give an accurate diagnosis.
How Do Doctors Treat Whiplash?
Because whiplash is an injury in the spine, it’s absolutely vital to treat the injury appropriately. The exact course of treatment may vary depending on the nature of the injury. In general, patients may need the following treatments to recover:
- Ice for the first day after the injury
- Gentle movements after the first 24 hours
- Pain medicine and muscle relaxers
- Physical therapy
- Gels or shots to lessen the associated pain
- Cervical collars
With proper treatment, most people with whiplash can make a full recovery within a few weeks. A few whiplash patients may have lingering pain for months or years. While medical treatments are effective for whiplash, they come at a significant cost.
What Costs are Associated with Whiplash?
It takes a skilled Round Rock car wreck lawyer to estimate how much your whiplash case may be worth. The exact costs depend on factors such as your insurance coverage, the severity of the injury, and the fault in the accident. However, there are some costs that all people with whiplash should consider when estimating their costs:
- Costs of diagnosis, including imaging tests and doctor’s fees
- All medical treatments needed to heal, including physical therapy copays and prescription costs
- Time off of work, including the time needed for follow-up appointments
The mildest cases of whiplash may cost someone $2,500, while those that involve damage to the vertebrae may result in settlements upwards of $100,000.
Recoup Your Costs With a Round Rock Car Wreck Lawyer
If you sustain whiplash injuries after a car accident, be sure to contact a Round Rock car wreck lawyer. No matter the extent of your injuries, you shouldn’t have to pay for them if the accident wasn’t your fault. An attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call Elissa Henry Law Firm at (512) 766-4529 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
