Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a fast, strong movement of the neck back and forth, such as the crunch of a whip. It is a relatively common injury, with around two million people seeking medical care for whiplash injuries each year in the United States. It can be caused by car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and physical abuse. The neck is one of the most vulnerable parts of the vertebral column due to its narrow and flexible nature.
When the head moves rapidly back and forth, the force on the neck also changes rapidly. This rapid change in strength can stretch or even tear ligaments and tendons, force the discs out of their normal positions between the vertebrae, or tear the tiny nerves surrounding the neck and shoulders. In addition, violent movement often causes swelling in the neck area, which in turn can cause pain and nerve compression. The symptoms of whiplash can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include tingling or pins and needles on one or both sides of the body, problems walking or sitting upright, a sudden electric shock sensation in the neck and back that may also reach the arms and legs, and feeling weak in the arms or legs.
Most people with whiplash get better within a few weeks if they follow a treatment plan that includes pain medications and exercise. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you think you may have whiplash as it can be difficult to determine if you have it or not.
