Whiplash

Whiplash is an injury of the neck usually caused by rapid movements of the neck back and forth. Car accidents are the most common cause of Whiplash injuries of the neck, especially rear – end car accidents. However, this neck injury can also occur from physical abuse, contact sports like karate, boxing, football, etc., horseback riding, falls, blows to the head or any other injury and trauma to the head, neck and vertebral column.

Whiplash results from the extension of the neck structures beyond their typical range of motion. The affected structures include: the vertebrae, vertebral discs, ligaments, muscles, nerves, etc. The injuries are usually not visible immediately, so it is very important to pay attention. The signs and symptoms of Whiplash usually develop within the first 24 hours after the injury.

The signs and symptoms of Whiplash are not immediately noticeable. The most common signs and symptoms of Whiplash include headache and stiffness, but other causes are:

• Dizziness, numbness, and possible tingling in the arm