Misdiagnosing Whiplash
In the aftermath of an accident, you are likely just checking your body for any obvious signs of injury such as blood, extreme pain, head trauma or broken bones. When these have been checked for everyone involved in the wreck and everything seems to be alright, you are probably just thankful that everyone seems to be safe. After this there is the exchanging of information and police report.
When you go to a doctor to be checked out for any possible injuries, the doctor may miss an important injury that does not immediately show. For example, a doctor may fail to diagnose whiplash, as the intense pain in the neck often does not show up for hours or even days later. If you or someone you love has suffered from a delayed diagnosis after an accident, contact the Washington medical malpractice lawyers of Fuller & Fuller at 800-570-4878 today.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is neck pain caused by injury to the soft tissues in the neck, meaning the ligaments, tendons and muscles. Whiplash is very common after car accidents because the force on the neck causes the head to move beyond its normal range of motion. It can also be caused by diving injuries, falls, and other accidents, however.
You may be suffering from whiplash if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Neck pain
- Neck swelling
- Tenderness
- Muscle spasms
- Headache
- Limited movement
- Shooting pain
Without treatment, the symptoms of whiplash can persist and may lead to other complications. After a major accident, it is important for emergency room workers to check victims for any serious injuries they may have suffered.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been a victim of delayed diagnosis, contact the Washington medical malpractice lawyers of Fuller & Fuller at 800-570-4878 today.