If you have been in an auto accident and are suffering from symptoms or think you may be, it is important to get properly examined to determine the extent of your injuries before they become worse and start treatment immediately.  

At WIC, we work to stabilize the pain with appropriate prescription medication, but also make sure we refer you to qualified local chiropractors or physical therapists who are trained to handle these injuries.  

We will continue to monitor your progress as you recuperate from your injuries, and facilitate referrals if needed for, among others, diagnostic testing, orthopedics, and neurology. We also keep detailed records of your injury and the care you require, and provide a report to your attorney.

Crashes & Whiplash

Car crashes, collisions, and minor fender benders are the major causes of whiplash. The ill effects of a whiplash injury can occur instantly or it could be weeks or months before symptoms occur. Injuries to the neck caused by a sudden movement (head forward, back, or sideways) is commonly referred to as "whiplash" or "acceleration/deceleration injuries." 

Literally thousands of pounds of force are exerted upon the neck and spine of the whiplash victim. These forces result in tearing of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and in turn, can result in a injury to the entire muscular and skeletal system. The results of such injuries can cause neck pain, shoulder and arm pain or numbness, elbow and hand pain or numbness, mid back pain, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision. The injured areas lose the ability to function and loss of range of motion (stiffness) occurs.

Pain, Why Me?

Pain is an indicator that a problem within are bodies exists. Without pain our bodies could not tell us that there is an injury and that there is something wrong. Usually the absence of pain and swelling after injury is an exceedingly poor indicator of healing tissue. Most minor to moderate whiplash injuries are overlooked by the patient, the hospital, and even the patient's family medical provider due to the lack of initial pain. One week up to a month after the injury, the patient continues to have pain or the pain worsens, is when most people begin to realize that the injury is much worse then they had imagined.

Effects of Improper Medical Care

Improper treatment of whiplash injuries and all soft tissue injuries is a factor in about 50% of the patient's that finally present themselves to our clinic.  Most doctors, urgent cares and ERs prescribe muscle relaxers, pain medications, and anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) first and dont provide any follow up care if your symptoms persist or handle the paperwork required.  

What should I do if I am in a car accident?

1. Stop - do not obstruct traffic
2. Assist the injured
3. Protect the scene - to prevent further injury
4. Call an officer - local Police Department
5. Keep notes - strictly to yourself
6. Assist the officer - give basic facts
7. Identify the other driver
8. Obtain witnesses information
9. Arrest does not indicate liability
10. Do not leave the scene until doing the previous 9 things
11. if your injuries are severe go immediately to an ER.  Make sure you follow up with a doctor who has experience with car accident injuries
12. Inform your insurance company

Do I need an attorney? How do I find one who is familiar with auto accidents, personal injury, and/or whiplash cases?

We work with many excellent attorneys. We can refer you to several attorneys in the area that specialize in Personal Injury Claims and who have assisted our patients in the past.