Handling a Work-Related Whiplash Injury

But no matter the circumstances of suffering from whiplash, the symptoms can worsen if left untreated.

Work-related whiplash injuries are common in many fields, from delivery drivers to factory workers to even accountants spending most of their time at the desk. But no matter the circumstances of suffering from whiplash, the symptoms can worsen if left untreated. Since employees can get worker’s comp for work-related whiplash injuries, it’s best to follow a specific course of action to heal.

Seek treatment immediately

The biggest mistake anyone suffering from a work-related injury can make is to delay seeking treatment. Any damage (minor or severe) deserves immediate attention.

It’s even more important to consider a quick consultation and treatment when faced with a whiplash injury. Not all whiplash symptoms are unbearable. Shoulder pain, mild dizziness, and neck stiffness won’t scare everyone, but all can worsen over time.

But mild symptoms can evolve into severe problems if left untreated. Therefore, it’s vital to seek medical assistance quickly to determine the root cause of the problem and the injury’s severity.

Without a thorough consultation from a specialist, it isn’t easy to create an efficient treatment plan.

Choose the appropriate treatment center

Workers suffering from work-related whiplash injuries have two ways to seek medical attention. First, they can go to an emergency room if the whiplash is recent and seems severe.

Secondly, they can follow the usual procedure for getting medical care. The steps may differ depending on the worker’s employer-sponsored insurance plan and state legislation.

However, one should note that it is possible to choose a specialist other than the one suggested by the employer or insurance company.

Fortunately, whiplash-related injuries have three diagnostic methods. Therefore, visiting a facility that can conduct x-ray, MRI, and CT scans is essential. In addition, some injuries to the soft tissue require more advanced imaging techniques to identify the damage.

Treating a whiplash work-related injury may include everything from applying ice to wearing a neck collar to taking medicine to physical therapy. That is why it is even more vital to diagnose the extent of the work-related injury.

Choose the correct medical professional or therapist

Choosing a healthcare specialist is vital in healing a work-related injury. But insurance companies and employers may force employees to visit a specific doctor.

However, in many states, people can choose to get treatment from whomever they want. Usually, chiropractors can resolve whiplash injuries using precise techniques across multiple sessions.

Naturally, it is better to find a chiropractic practice that accepts benefits from worker’s compensation. But the main advantage of working with a chiropractor is that it often involves targeted therapy instead of heavy medication.

Getting treated quickly is best

Whiplash injuries are not impossible to mend when appropriate steps are taken. Seeking treatment quickly, going to a specialized facility, and working with a professional chiropractor can prevent further pain and speed up recovery.

If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.