Learn about Whiplash symptoms from Consumer Reports Health.

Whiplash

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Your neck will be sore and painful, especially when you try to move it. The pain will probably feel worse the day after the injury.

You may have some of the following symptoms within the first two days after your injury, or they might start a day or two afterward:

Source:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Neck Pain.
October 2007. Available at http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00231 (accessed on 30 September 2009).

Source:
Barry M, Jenner JR.
ABC of rheumatology: pain in neck, shoulder and arm.
BMJ. 1995; 10: 183-186.

A painful and stiff neck
Headaches
Pain in your shoulder or between your shoulder blades
Pain in your lower back
Pain or numbness in your arm and hand
Dizziness, ringing in your ears, or blurred vision. This should last for only a short time. Tell your doctor if these symptoms don't go away soon
Difficulty concentrating and feeling irritable.

A severe whiplash injury can cause more serious problems that need treatment in a hospital. The spine or

spinal cord
Your spinal cord is a thick bundle of nerves that runs down your backbone (spine). These nerves carry messages between your brain and the rest of your body. The bones (vertebrae) in your neck and back protect your spinal cord. If your spinal cord gets damaged, you may lose feeling in your legs or arms.

spinal cord is sometimes damaged, but this is not very common. You should go back to see your doctor:

If the pain becomes worse
If the pain lasts more than four to six weeks
If you get any numbness, weakness, or pins and needles in your arm or hand.

Sources for the information on this page:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Neck Pain.October 2007. Available at http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00231 (accessed on 30 September 2009).

Barry M, Jenner JR.ABC of rheumatology: pain in neck, shoulder and arm.BMJ. 1995; 10: 183-186.

This information was last updated on Dec 15, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2010. All rights reserved.

The information on ConsumerReportsHealth.org should not be viewed as a substitute for a consultation with a medical or health professional. The information is meant to enhance communication with your doctor, not replace it. Consumers Union can not be liable for any loss, injury, or other damages related to your use of this information.

Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.