Classification
Depending on the symptoms, whiplash is classified into different degrees of severity according to the so-called Quebec classification, where degree 0 means that there are no symptoms. Grade 1 is neck pain, which usually lasts for several days to weeks. Muscle tension is part of grade 2, although the duration here is usually longer and often lasts several weeks.
Grade 3 also involves damage to the nerves, which has a significant effect on the duration. Depending on the severity and early treatment of the damage, the symptoms can last for several years. The 4th and last degree describes the most severe type of injury with involvement of the bones, for example a fracture. It is difficult to make a statement about the duration of this, as it can vary greatly.
Duration of a whiplash injury
Whiplash can have different degrees of severity and duration of symptoms. Usually the duration of the symptoms after most whiplash traumas is between two and four weeks. If symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted again to determine whether the injury is possibly more severe than originally suspected.
The symptoms usually appear within the first few hours after the whiplash injury. In some cases, however, further symptoms may occur after 3 days. Are you interested in this topic?
Consequences of a whiplash injury
A whiplash injury can have various consequences. These depend largely on the nature and severity of the trauma itself and the symptoms it causes. In more than half of all those affected, no symptoms are present after a few months.
Often the whiplash trauma remains without consequences and there is no long-term damage that could have a negative effect. However, a more severe whiplash injury can also develop longer lasting symptoms. Among the most common consequences are long-term shoulder or neck pain and irritation of the muscles and nerves.Very severe whiplash traumas can also lead to fractures and injuries in the area of the cervical spine, which can have serious and sometimes life-threatening consequences. Some people suffer from emotional stress after whiplash because the trauma caused by a traffic accident is a dangerous situation. For longer lasting conditions characterized by stress and anxiety, psychotherapy should therefore be considered if necessary.
