• 20
  • August
    2010

One of the most common injuries associated with car accidents is whiplash. While we often don't think of whiplash as a serious injury, a new study has concluded that not only can whiplash cause damage to the cervical spine, it may also cause anatomical changes in the body that could lead to serious brain injuries.

Whiplash is generally caused by a sudden jerking of one's head forward or backward. Frequently, this occurs when someone is rear ended in a traffic accident. Someone with a whiplash injury may experience mild symptoms such a stiff neck or shoulder pain to more serious problems including numbness, blurred vision, and cognitive problems.

According to the recent study co-authored by Dr. Ezriel E. Kornel, and published in the July issue of the journal Brain Injury, those that have suffered a whiplash injury may also be more likely to develop a herniation of the brain called Chiari malformation. Essentially this condition involves the cerebellum, or bottom of the brain, protruding from the base of the skull.

The condition can be painful and may cause other significant health problems. According to Dr. Kornel, symptoms may include headaches, numbness and tingling in the extremities, neck pain, and a general feeling of weakness. Since the condition can give rise to some many significant health problems, Dr. Kornel advises anyone that has suffered a whiplash injury to seek immediate medical attention to make sure the condition receives the proper treatment.

If you have been involved in a car accident that may have caused a possible whiplash injury, don't dismiss the aches and pains as minor injuries. Whiplash injuries can take a few days or even longer to become noticeable. The best course of action is to seek medical treatment to document any potential injuries, even if you don't think you were seriously injured. 

Related Resources:

Preliminary findings show that the connection between whiplash and brain injury is more significant than thought (PR Newswire)