Whiplash Injury

Whiplash is the collective term used for an injury to the neck, which can affect the bones, discs, muscles, nerves or tendons in the neck and back. This occurs when an unexpected force suddenly jerks the head backwards or sideways, followed by a reflect contraction in the opposite direction. Swelling and inflammation can occur due to damage caused by the rapid movement which leads to pressure being placed on the nerves. Damage to the bones in the neck is rare. Most whiplash injuries improve by 6-9 months after the accident but occasionally can cause permanent problems.