Whiplash Injury
This information may be useful for those who have been diagnosed with whiplash, this can also known as Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD). People who are experiencing new or ongoing symptoms should contact their healthcare professional.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash happens when your head is suddenly jolted backwards and forwards in a whip like movement. This can irritate some of the muscles and ligaments in your neck. There is often a delay of 24-48 hours before you feel any pain or stiffness from whiplash. These symptoms normally settle on their own in 2-3 months.
Common causes of whiplash include:
- being involved in a car accident
- a fall
- a sporting injury
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- changes to bladder and bowel function e.g. urgency, frequency, difficulty passing urine, leaking, incontinence
- changes to sensation around the bottom and/or genitals or sexual dysfunction e.g. recent inability to achieve orgasm or erection
- reduced balance or difficulty walking
- pain, weakness, heaviness or changing sensation in the arms or legs
- clumsy hands e.g. dropping things, struggling with handwriting, buttons or zips
- if your neck pain is associated with a severe headache
Phone 111 if your GP practice is closed.
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Symptoms of whiplash
Common symptoms of whiplash include:
- neck pain that may spread to the head, arm and upper back
- neck stiffness and difficulty moving your head
You may also experience short term:
- headaches
- tinnitus
- dizziness or blurred vision
- muscle spasms
- nausea, sleep disturbance
- pain in the jaw
- pain when swallowing
- memory loss
- difficulty concentrating
Diagnosing whiplash
In order for whiplash to be diagnosed you may need an assessment from a healthcare professional.
They’ll ask you questions and carry out a physical examination. This may include checking your range of movement and strength.
Occasionally you may need to have a further examination to rule out other possible health conditions.
Treatment of whiplash
In most cases whiplash will resolve gradually over time with the right help and advice. This can take a number of months.
Things you can do to help yourself includes:
- gently moving your neck and shoulders, immediately after your injury
- avoiding prolonged static postures
- try to continue doing everyday activities – it might hurt a little but it will speed up your recovery
- early return to your normal hobbies are encouraged
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Help and support
Following this advice, you should see gradual improvements over time.
You should see the biggest change in your symptoms within the first couple of weeks. Most problems should have started to improve within 6 weeks.
If there has been no improvement in your whiplash within 6 weeks of following this advice, or if your symptoms get worse at any time, talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.