Information From Your Health Care Provider

WHIPLASH

(Cervical Sprain or Strain)

Basic information

description

Whiplash (cervical sprain or strain) is a common neck injury. It is caused by a sudden movement of the head backward and then forward (or vice versa). Whiplash is often the result of a rear-end car accident. Symptoms may develop right away, within 2 to 3 days, or have a delayed onset of weeks. Symptoms vary from person to person. Whiplash can affect all ages and occurs in females more than males.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Pain in the back and/or front of the neck.
Stiffness in the neck. Difficult to move neck around.
Pain may occur in the lower back, shoulder, or arm.
Headache.
Vision changes.
Hearing noises in the ear (tinnitus).
Dizziness.
Arm weakness, tingling, numbness, or heaviness.
Trouble sleeping due to pain.
Problems with memory or concentration.

causes

The sudden head movement forces the neck to move beyond its normal range of motion. As this occurs, it causes trauma (over-stretching and tearing) to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck. A herniated disk and nerve compression can also occur.

risk increases with

Motor vehicle accident (can be slow or high speed).
Contact sports.
Amusement park rides (e.g., roller coaster).
Being punched or hit by a falling object.
Females.
Child abuse (e.g., shaken baby syndrome).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Use seatbelts and the padded headrests in your car. Drive carefully and defensively. Don't drink and drive.
Wear proper head gear for contact sports.
Use appropriate methods to prevent child abuse.

expected outcomes

Different treatments work for different people. Many patients heal completely or have symptom relief in 6 to 8 weeks and others in 2 to 3 months.
Following your health care provider's instructions and maintaining a positive attitude will help with your healing and recovery.

possible complications

Symptoms may continue up to 2 years or longer.
Symptoms may affect the quality of life for a person.
Depression or other emotional problems may occur.
Chronic pain syndrome may develop in some cases.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and the cause of your injury. X-rays or other tests may be done to rule out injury to the spine.
There are different treatment options that can relieve symptoms and often lead to full recovery. Your health care provider will discuss a treatment plan based on severity of symptoms and your individual needs.
Treatments can include drugs, ice or heat therapy, physical therapy, and neck exercises. Use of a soft foam cervical (neck) collar may or may not help symptoms.
In some cases, radiofrequency therapy (uses radio waves and heat), transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS), or traction may be recommended. Very rarely, disc surgery is needed.
Other treatments help some people. These include massage, chiropractor care, or acupuncture.
Mental health therapy (e.g., counseling) can be helpful if problems such as depression, stress, or anxiety develop. Insurance or legal factors may add to stress.

medications

Oral or injected pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or drugs for specific symptoms may be prescribed.
You may use aspirin (not for children), ibuprofen, or acetaminophen for minor pain.

activity

Exercises (e.g., stretching) for the neck and range-of-motion exercises are usually recommended. A physical therapist can provide help and instructions.
Resume pre-accident activities and work as soon as possible. Some adjustments at your job may be needed for a short time.