 |
|
Whiplash
Whiplash
Risk factors
Risk factors
The resulting instability of the spine and soft tissues are noteworthy and depend on
several factors.
- Rear direction impact.
- Limited range of motion; neurological symptoms after the crash.
- Ligamentous instability after the accident.
- Degenerative disease, headaches or neck injury or pain prior to the
crash.
- Vehicle size. When both are equal, even an 8 mph collision produces two times the force
of gravity or a 2-G acceleration of the car, and a 5-G acceleration of the head. This
magnification of the force gives rise to the name, Whiplash.
- Headrest position. This can make an injury much worse if too low, and even at the right
height, it must be close enough to catch the head in time (about 2 inches). A seat that is
reclined too far will increase this distance, as will poor posture and driving habits if
leaning forward. Some older vehicles (trucks, vans) do not have head
restraints, adding insult to injury.
- The position of the head at impact. When turned to the side, for instance, it can
only move about half as far as a straightforward position. Hence, all the G forces are
localized to one side of the spine, substantially increasing the severity of injuries.
- Age plays an important role because as the body becomes older, ligaments become
less pliable, muscles weaker and less flexible, and decreases in range of motion.
- Women and children seem to be injured more seriously than men. This is most
notable due to the fact that they tend to have smaller necks. They may
also be too
close to the steering wheel, airbag and/or have improper
fitting shoulder harnesses.
- Pre-existing health problems such as arthritis, lend to the severity of the
injuries.
- The use of the seatbelt and shoulder harness.
- Non-awareness of the impact.
- Non-failure of the seatback.
|
Our Team
| Our Services
| How We're Different
| News
| Search
| Site Index
| Contact Us
| Location & Directions
| Home
|
|
|
