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Whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden movement of the head. It usually gets better within 2 to 3 months.
Whiplash most often happens after a traffic accident or a slip or fall.
Common symptoms of whiplash include:
It can take several hours for the symptoms to start after you injure your neck.
There are some things you can do to treat whiplash.
take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to help with pain
try to continue doing everyday activities – it might hurt a little but it will speed up your recovery
do not use a neck brace or collar to support your neck – this does not help
do not rest your neck for long periods of time
You have injured your neck and:
These symptoms could be caused by damage to the nerves in your neck or back.
You can call 111 or check your symptoms on 111 online.
A GP may prescribe a stronger painkiller such as codeine for whiplash.
If your symptoms do not get any better after a few weeks, a GP may refer you:
Physiotherapy from the NHS may not be available in your area and waiting times can be long. You can also get physiotherapy privately.
