Minor whiplash

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

Whiplash is the term used to describe a neck injury caused by a sudden movement of the head forwards, backwards or sideways.

The sudden, vigorous movement of the head damages the ligaments muscles and bone. Ligaments are the fibrous connective tissues that link two bones together at a joint.

Whiplash typically causes pain, stiffness and temporary loss of movement in the neck. Headaches, muscle spasm and pan in the shoulders or arms are other possible symptoms.

It may take six to 12 hours for symptoms of whiplash to become apparent. The pain and stiffness is often worse on the day after the injury. The pain may continue to get worse during the days after the injury.

Symptoms of whiplash include:

Common

• neck pain and stiffness
• neck swelling
• reduction of movement in the neck
• headaches.

Other

• lower back pain
• pins and needles in arms and hands
• muscle spasms
• dizziness and/or tiredness
• blurred vision, spinning or ringing in the ears.

Following a ‘whiplash’ musculoskeletal injury, the dizziness, headaches, blurred vision and problems with swallowing should only last for a short while. See you GP if any of these symptoms don’t resolve.

If you have any of the following symptoms you should call an ambulance immediately on 999

General advice

Ice Pack

• Apply an ice pack to the neck as soon as possible after the injury occurs to help reduce any inflammation (swelling).
• Do not apply ice directly on the skin. Wrap in a towel to provide a protective barrier. Apply the ice up to 10 to 30 minutes at a time.

Exercise

• If you have whiplash, it is important to try to move your neck normally. If the pain in the neck is severe, you may need to rest the neck for a day or so until the pain eases.
• After the pain has eased, exercise your neck gently so that it doesn’t become stiff. Move the neck slowly in each direction, gradually increasing the range of movement. Continue with your normal daily activities.

Painkillers

• Pain killers such as Paracetamol will help to ease the pain caused by whiplash.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSIADs) such as Ibuprofen will help to reduce any inflammation (swelling) in your neck.
• Taking painkillers regularly (do not exceed the recommended dose), rather than only when the pain is sever, may help to prevent the pain getting worse.
• When taking painkillers, always follow the instructions on the leaflet that comes with the medicine. You should therefore check with your pharmacist if already taking medications from your GP.
• If this does not control the pain your GP may be able to provide stronger pain relief.

Driving

• Do not drive if you have pain and stiffness that prevents you from turning your head quickly.

If your neck is not better within seven days, you can contact your GP to discuss.

Patient advice leaflet: Reviewed June 2023