Whiplash
Overview
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden movement of the head. It usually gets better within 2 to 3 months.
Symptoms
Whiplash most often happens after a traffic accident or a slip or fall. Common symptoms of whiplash include: neck painneck stiffness and difficulty moving your headheadachespain and muscle spasms in the shoulders and arms It can take several hours for the symptoms to start after you injure your neck.
Treatment
A GP may prescribe a stronger painkiller such ascodeinefor whiplash. If your symptoms do not get any better after a few weeks, a GP may refer you: to a physiotherapistto a pain specialistfor psychological support Physiotherapy from the NHS may not be available in your area and waiting times can be long. You can also get physiotherapy privately.