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Whiplash
Medical Questions » Whiplash
| Name: Whiplash |
| Also known as: Neck Sprain; Traumatic Cervical Syndrome |
| Injury that damages the ligaments and muscles that support the neck and head. |
Causes of Whiplash
If a person is suddenly accelerated forwards (eg. in a rear-end automobile accident), the head has a tendency to remain behind and the neck is bent backwards suddenly and excessively. The ligaments and muscles on the front of the vertebral column and neck are stretched and torn (sprained). In severe cases, nerve fibres may also be overstretched and damaged. |
Symptoms of Whiplash
Vary dramatically from one patient to another. Pain, limited neck movement and stiffness may commence shortly after the injury or be delayed by 24 hours or more. Pain may spread to the shoulders, chest and back. Other possible symptoms include numbness in the fingers and forearm, difficulty in swallowing, blurred vision, dizziness, noises in the ears (tinnitus) and nausea. |
Tests for Whiplash
Neck X-rays are often performed, but are usually normal. |
Treatment for Whiplash
Rest, immobilization (neck brace), anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, heat and physiotherapy.
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Complications of Whiplash of its treatment
Damage to the bony vertebrae in the neck, or very rarely the spinal cord. |
Likely Outcome of Whiplash
Most patients recover within a couple of weeks, but a very small number continue with long-term discomfort, pain and movement limitation. |
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