Neck whiplash is an injury caused by a sudden, forceful movement of the head, usually forward and then backward, like the cracking of a whip. This can happen in car accidents, falls, or contact sports. The force can strain or damage the muscles, ligaments, joints, and discs in the neck.

An analogy…

Think of your neck like a tree in strong wind. If the wind suddenly pushes the tree forward and then yanks it back, the trunk and branches can stretch or even tear. That’s what happens to the soft tissues in your neck during whiplash.

What are other names that neck whiplash can be referred to?

Whiplash, Whiplash Syndrome, Acceleration / Deceleration Injury, Neck Sprain

What causes neck whiplash?

Whiplash occurs when the neck is forced into a rapid forward and backward motion, which overstretches the soft tissues. This can strain the muscles, ligaments, and facet joints, and may also irritate nerves or affect the discs between the vertebrae. In some cases, there’s inflammation and joint dysfunction in the upper cervical spine.

What are the signs and symptoms of neck whiplash?

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
• Shoulder or upper back pain
• Reduced neck range of motion
• Muscle tightness or spasms
• Fatigue or dizziness
• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping (in some cases)
• Pain that may worsen with movement

What tests are used to diagnose neck whiplash?

Palpation: Your practitioner uses their hands to feel the muscles, joints, and tissues in your neck and shoulders. They check for tenderness, tightness, swelling, or joint stiffness. If certain areas are sore or tense, it can help identify which tissues were affected by the whiplash injury.

Range of Motion Tests: These tests check how far and how comfortably you can move your neck. You may be asked to turn your head side to side, look up and down, or tilt your head toward each shoulder. If the movement is restricted or painful, it may show that the muscles, joints, or ligaments are irritated or injured from the whiplash.

How long does neck whiplash take to heal?

Most people with mild to moderate neck whiplash recover well with the right treatment, usually within a few weeks to a few months. More severe cases can take longer to heal and may lead to long-term issues like stiffness or joint wear that can cause ongoing pain and reduced movement.

How does neck whiplash happen?

• Car accidents (especially rear-end collisions)
• Falls or sudden jolts
• Contact sports
• Poor neck strength or posture before the injury
• Previous neck injuries

What treatment can help neck whiplash?

• Manual therapy to restore movement and reduce stiffness
• Massage to relax tight muscles
• Gentle stretching and mobility exercises
• Postural retraining
• Education on pacing and gradual return to activity
• Heat or cold therapy for pain relief
• Strengthening exercises during recovery phase

What happens if neck whiplash doesn’t get better with treatment?

In some cases, even with proper treatment, a small number of people with neck whiplash don’t fully recover. They may need further care, like scans, medication, injections, or a referral to a specialist for additional treatment options.

What exercises or stretches can I do for neck whiplash?

• Chin tucks
• Neck side bends and rotations
• Shoulder blade squeezes

• Walking or light activity

What products can help with neck whiplash?

• Trigger Ball
• Wheatbag