Whiplash --- this affect
my memory?
“Doctor,
is it normal for people after a whiplash injury to notice problems with memory? I can't seem to remember things I just recently did since my car accident” This is a common complaint occurring as a result of a whiplash injury, but it's not commonly known, leaving those who are suffering wondering, ”… what's wrong with me?” Whiplash is an injury that classically occurs as a result of a car crash at any speed, even at low speed! This is because at low speed, there is little to no damage to the car, and the forces from the crash are not absorbed by the crushing metal. As a result of those forces are transferred to the contents inside the car---that is, the passengers. The actual injury that occurs in whiplash is caused by the sudden, rapid movement of the head resulting in vain degrees of injury to the neck, as well as to the contents inside the skull---that is, the brain. The brain literally “bangs” into the side walls of the scope when the head is rapidly accelerated during a car crash. The resulting injury is referred to by one of two names: Post-concussive syndrome or mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI).

Some people report a loss of concentration or ability to carry on a complete conversation, or manage their checkbook. This can be very embarrassing, frustrating, and scary for patients suffering with MTBI. Most of the time this completely clears up in 2 to 6 months without problems, however, in severe cases it can hang on for a couple years or longer, and some people may suffer permanently from this injury. We realize that you have a choice in where you choose to obtain your healthcare services. If you or someone you know is suffering from whiplash or brain injury, please give them this article and have them call us for a consultation.

-Dr. Wood