Whiplash is a neck injury that is caused by a sudden, whip-like motion of the head. It can cause pain, tenderness, tingling, and numbness in the shoulder, upper back, and arms. Every year, more than two million Americans suffer from whiplash. The symptoms of whiplash usually take 12 to 24 hours to develop.
At the time of the incident, any swelling or bruising in the neck muscles will not be immediately noticeable. The discomfort, pain, and stiffness may worsen as the day goes by. Whiplash is most commonly associated with a vehicle being hit from behind by another vehicle; however, it can also be caused by other activities such as sports or falls. Treatment for whiplash usually involves rest and pain relief medications.
Physical therapy may also be recommended to help reduce pain and stiffness. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the neck muscles or ligaments. If you think you may have whiplash, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and speed up recovery.
