whiplash injuries

Neck & Back Sprain

Whiplash often describes neck injuries resulting from car accidents, but its origins trace back to 1928 when Dr. Harold Crowe coined the term to explain neck trauma linked to automobile collisions. Over time, “whiplash” has evolved into a broader term for “hyper-flexion/hyper-extension” injuries, which can arise from various traumatic incidents beyond auto accidents.

Understanding Whiplash: How It Happens

The direction of impact significantly determines the injury’s severity. For instance, a head-on collision forces the neck to flex suddenly, followed by a recoil into extension, creating a “hyper-flexion/hyper-extension” injury. On the other hand, rear-end collisions—one of the most frequent causes of whiplash—cause a different motion. As the body is shoved forward, the head lags behind momentarily and whips backward. Then, as the car abruptly stops, the head is thrust forward toward the chest. This rapid back-and-forth motion places intense strain on the neck and spine.

Whiplash Can Be Serious: Seek Medical Attention

While whiplash might seem like a minor injury, the forces involved in a car accident can create significant trauma to your spine. For perspective, any collision strong enough to bend steel can easily damage the human body. The intensity of the force often exceeds the spine’s natural resistance, leading to injuries in the neck, back, and surrounding tissues.

Additionally, symptoms of whiplash may not appear right away. Many individuals experience delayed symptoms, which can surface weeks or even months after the accident. Although whiplash is commonly associated with the neck (cervical spine), studies reveal that these injuries can also extend to the lower back due to the acceleration and deceleration forces.

Get a Free Review of Your Injury Claim

If another person’s negligence caused your injury in an auto accident, you have the right to pursue fair compensation. Don’t settle your claim without understanding your legal options. Contact Moore-Faust Injury Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us now for a free consultation! Learn more about what to bring to your FREE consultation here.