A Look at how Whiplash is Diagnosed

Car accidents sometimes result in neck injuries, the symptoms of which show up almost instantaneously. However, an injury like a whiplash can sometimes take days or weeks to manifest. Symptoms like neck pain, headaches, and dizziness can be indications of a whiplash. However, to have access to the proper treatment for the injury, patients first need proper diagnosis from medical professionals.

Patients typically have their X-rays taken when they are brought in for medical care right after a car accident in order to detect any serious injuries. However, there are times when these X-rays seem normal and don’t hint at a whiplash injury, but patients continue to feel neck pain even after several days. In this case, a doctor may request for dynamic X-rays where patients have to lean their heads backward and forward.

A doctor may also ask for an MRI to pinpoint the soft tissue injuries in patients’ necks, which is not possible with any type of X-ray. A doctor can also determine if a computerized tomography (CT scan) is needed, and this diagnostic test delves deeper than mere soft tissues. A CT scan can provide images of bones and soft tissues in more detailed images than X-rays or MRIs could. If whiplash injury is confirmed via said tests, a doctor will help them formulate the proper treatment program.