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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Whiplash Treatment

1. Seek Medical Care

See a doctor. Or go to a hospital emergency room if:

  • Pain occurs after an injury or accident.
  • Neck pain radiates down the arms and legs.
  • Pain is accompanied by headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

 

Recommended Related to First Aid

Understanding Sprains and Strains -- Prevention

The best way to prevent sprains or strains is to keep yourself in good physical shape so that your muscles, ligaments, and tendons are strong and flexible enough to resist trauma. To prevent recurring injury, ask your doctor or physical therapist for exercises designed to rehabilitate the muscles in the injured area. You may benefit from a brace to protect the area while you are recovering from a recent injury. Use a brace for only a short period, since your muscles can get used to the support from...

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2. Relieve Muscle Tension

  • Apply dry or moist heat to the area.

 

3. Treat Pain

  • Give pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

 

4. Prevent Unnecessary Neck Strain

  • When the person is lying down, place a small pillow under the nape of the neck to align head and neck.

 

5. Follow Up

  • Treatment may include a cervical collar, muscle relaxants, exercises, or physical therapy.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on October 03, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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