Whiplash
Cervical acceleration–deceleration
A type of neck injury caused by sudden movement of the head forwards, backwards or sideways
About
Need to know
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Symptoms icon plus
It can take several days for the full symptoms of whiplash to develop. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Tenderness over the neck muscles
- Reduced and painful neck movements
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Pain in the shoulders and arms
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Diagnosis icon plus
Whiplash can usually be diagnosed by your consultant by detailing your symptoms and the circumstances of the trauma to the head and/or neck. They may also examine your neck for signs of muscle spasms, tenderness and assess the range of movement in your neck. If a fracture is suspected the following imaging tests may be carried out:
- X-ray
- CT or MRI scan
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Whiplash usually gets better on its own or following some basic treatment. This may include:
- Keeping your neck mobile and continuing with your normal activities. Using a neck brace isn't recommended
- Over the counter painkillers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if normal painkillers don't help
- Physiotherapy, including specific exercises and stretches to be carried out on your own regularly
Our consultants
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
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Outpatients and Diagnostics at 30 Devonshire Street
30 Devonshire Street
London W1G 6PU
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The Wellington Hospital Spinal Unit
South Building, Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park
Beaufort House, Elstree Road
Elstree WD6 3BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344