At a glance
What it is
Neck injury from sudden backward or forward head movement (acceleration–deceleration), classically from motor vehicle collision. Soft-tissue injury to ligaments and muscles.
Typical signs
Neck pain and stiffness (may be delayed hours to days), headache, shoulder pain, numbness or tingling in arms.
How we treat it
Acute: immobilisation, analgesia, muscle relaxants. Early mobilisation once acute pain settles. Chronic: physiotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and — rarely — interventional pain procedures.
What whiplash is
Whiplash occurs when the neck is forcibly flexed and extended (or vice versa) by sudden acceleration or deceleration, classically in motor vehicle collisions. The underlying injury is to the soft tissues — ligaments, muscles, and facet joints — though MRI and X-ray are often normal.
What we see in clinic
10–15%
Develop chronic whiplash-associated disorder (WAD)
3–7 days
Average onset of peak pain
80%
Recover within 3 months with early mobilisation
Key facts
How it is treated
Early mobilisation and active rehabilitation are key. Most recover with conservative care.
Acute management
First 1–2 weeks
- Soft cervical collar for brief immobilisation (< 3 days) if needed
- Paracetamol and NSAIDs for pain
- Muscle relaxants if spasm is limiting
Early rehabilitation
Weeks 1–4
- Gentle neck mobilisation and range-of-motion exercises
- Progressive strengthening of neck and shoulder muscles
- Posture education and ergonomic advice
Chronic pain management
If pain persists > 3 months
- Intensive physiotherapy with an emphasis on fear-avoidance reduction
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Facet joint injections or medial branch blocks if focal pain suggests facet origin
Psychological support
Important for catastrophising and fear-avoidance
- Reassurance and education about expected recovery
- Return-to-work and activity graded exposure
Related reading
Neck pain
Neck pain from strain, disc wear or facet joint arthritis. Most flare-ups settle in weeks; chronic pain may need physiotherapy, medication or procedures.
Back pain
Most back pain is mechanical and settles in weeks. The first visit identifies the few cases that need imaging, injections or surgery, without over-treating.
Book a consultation
The secretary schedules first appointments during clinic hours; please have prior imaging, operative notes and a current medication list available at the time of the call.
This page provides general information about whiplash and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, contact a clinician promptly.