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Whiplash is when the soft tissues of the neck are injured by a sudden jerking or “whipping” of the head. This type of motion strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range of motion.
Considerations
When a vehicle stops suddenly in a crash or is struck from behind, a seat belt will keep a person’s body from being thrown forward. But the head may snap forward, then backward, causing whiplash.
Causes
In addition to car accidents, whiplash can be caused by roller coasters and other amusement park rides, sports injuries, or being punched or shaken. (Whiplash is one of the hallmarks of shaken baby syndrome.)
Symptoms
You may feel pain and stiffness in your neck for the first few days following a whiplash injury. Then you feel better, but the pain and stiffness may come back several days later. This symptom can last for months or years.
The discomfort you feel may involve surrounding muscle groups in your head, chest, shoulders, and arms.
First Aid
Try over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen.
For at least 2 to 3 weeks, avoid activities that bring on or worsen your pain and stiffness.
Don’t lift or carry anything heavy or participate in sports.
Do not sit, especially at a desk, for long periods of time.
If possible, stay active by taking short walks.
If you have pain when you move your head or the pain involves your shoulders or arms, your doctor may recommend a soft neck collar or short-term prescription drug to relax the muscles.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your doctor if:
Neck pain and stiffness comes back after it had cleared up
Neck pain is very severe
The pain spreads to your shoulders or arms
You have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs
You have problems with your bladder or bowels
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