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Whiplash

Also called: Whiplash, neck sprain, neck strain after car accident

Neck pain and stiffness after the head is jerked back and forth, most often in a rear-end car crash. Symptoms often start the next day and most people improve within weeks.

StartsOften hours to a day later
KeyKeep the neck moving gently
Usually improvesWeeks

Overview

Headaches, shoulder pain, dizziness, and tiredness are common.

A soft collar isn't usually advised for long; gentle movement heals faster.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Neck pain after a car crash
  • Neck pain after a car accident

Less common

  • Headache
  • Stiffness
  • Shoulder pain

Look up a symptom: Neck pain after a car accident · Neck pain or stiffness

When to get medical care

Call 911Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, loss of bladder control, or severe pain right after a crash.
Get care todaySevere pain, or a headache that gets worse.
See a doctor soonPain lasting more than a few weeks.

Causes

Sudden back-and-forth head motion.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Car crashes
  • Contact sports

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the neck.

Questions you may be asked

  • How the crash happened

The exam

Neck motion and nerve check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray or CT: If a bone injury is possible.

Treatment

Keep moving.

Self-care

  • Ice for the first days, then heat
  • Gentle neck range-of-motion exercises
  • Good posture
  • Return to normal activity slowly

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Physical therapy helps lasting pain.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Adjust headrests to head height

Which doctor treats this

  • Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
  • They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Outlook

Most recover.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Whiplash

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.