In this article, learn more about the symptoms associated with whiplash and the best treatment options.
The article also touches on severe injuries that can lead to complications.
Whiplash injuries account for approximately 75% of all survivable road traffic collision injuries.
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
When Do Symptoms Begin?
Researchers have found that approximately 65% of people with whiplash develop symptoms within six hours of the injury.
93% of people develop symptoms within 24 hours.
100% of people develop symptoms within 72 hours.
Complications
Complications from whiplash can occur, especially with severe grade 3 or grade 4 injuries.
More significant complications can occur with extreme injuries, but they are associated with cervical spine fractures and dislocations.
Do not confuse these complications with a whiplash injury.
This is especially true if you develop any numbness or weakness.
Acute pain can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and moist heat.
Common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, and some people can develop chronic pain and headaches.
It is important not to confuse whiplash with traumatic cervical spine injury.
Whiplash is a mild to moderate injury of the neck muscles.
Treatment includes OTC pain medicines, moist heat, and stretching exercises.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Whiplash injury.
MedlinePlus.Neck Injuries and Disorders.
Sterling M.Physiotherapy management of whiplash-associated disorders (WAD).J Physiother.
Cham (CH): Springer; 2020.231-240.
