Overview

Causes

Whiplash can by caused by any sudden, violent, backward jerk of the head or neck.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Contact sports
  • Falls
  • Violence

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

Problems may start right away or in the days after the injury.

A person may have:

  • Stiff neck
  • Neck pain
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Shoulder pain and stiffness
  • Poor range of neck motion
  • Muscle spasms
  • Headache
  • Pain, numbness, or tingling extending down an arm
  • Fatigue

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the neck.

Most whiplash injuries do not show up on imaging tests. Neck images may be taken to make sure that no other injuries have occurred. Images may be taken with:

  • X-rays
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan
  • CT myelogram

An electromyogram may also be done to test for nerve damage.

Treatments

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to ease pain. Choices are:

  • Supportive care, such as ice and heat therapy
  • Over the counter and prescription pain relievers
  • Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent this problem. Whiplash is often due to accidents.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.