Neck Injury

Whiplash is one type of neck injury. Any type of injury to the neck that causes pain, swelling, a lump in the neck or inflammation can be considered a neck injury. Falls, car crashes and sports mishaps are common causes of these injuries. With whiplash, the cervical vertebrae in the neck become strained or sprained because the neck suddenly extended and flexed after a rapid acceleration or deceleration. Symptoms include neck stiffness and pain, dizziness and headache. Treatment might include a mix of immobilizing the neck in a cervical collar, taking pain-relief medication and anti-inflammatory drugs, and undergoing physical therapy.

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QWhat are common causes of whiplash?

1 Answer

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A National Athletic Trainers' Association answered

The most common cause of whiplash is a car accident. In sports, whiplash can happen during blind-side tackling or another unexpected hit.

This answer provided for NATA by the University of Alabama Athletic Training Education Program.
QWhat should I do if I think I might have whiplash?

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A National Athletic Trainers' Association answered

It is a good idea to see a doctor if you believe you have a whiplash injury. The doctor can carefully check all of the bones, nerves, ligaments, and muscles in your neck.

(This answer provided for NATA by the University of Alabama Athletic Training Education Program.)
QHow is whiplash treated?

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A Riverside Emergency and Trauma Center answered

Treatment for individuals with whiplash may include pain medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and a cervical collar (usually worn for two to three weeks). A range of motion exercises, physical therapy, and cervical traction may also be prescribed. Supplemental heat application may relieve muscle tension.
This answer is based on source information from National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

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QWhat is torticollis (wryneck)?

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A RealAge answered

Torticollis, also called wryneck, is a condition that causes short, tight neck muscles. Shortened neck muscles cause the head to tilt to one side, and usually cause the chin to turn inward and down, toward the opposite shoulder. This condition can be present at birth or develop in adults. In adults, it may develop due to damage to the nervous system, upper spine or muscles in the upper body. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, problems turning the head, and one shoulder that is higher than the other. Sometimes, torticollis can be treated with muscle stretching. Other possible treatments include neck braces, medications and injections, and surgery. Torticollis is not usually life-threatening, but should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor to avoid more serious problems.