Whiplash is a condition that occurs when the head and neck experience a sudden, forceful back-and-forth motion, typically caused by a sudden impact or acceleration-deceleration event. It commonly occurs in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions, but can also result from sports injuries, physical assaults, or falls. Whiplash is characterized by a range of symptoms, including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty in neck movement. In some cases, individuals may also experience shoulder or back pain, tingling or numbness in the arms, and cognitive or psychological symptoms such as memory problems or mood changes. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Whiplash is usually treated with a combination of pain medication, physical therapy, exercises, and self-care measures, aiming to alleviate pain, restore range of motion, and promote healing.
