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Whiplash

Distorsio columnae cervicalis · Distorze krční páteře (whiplash)

What it is

The neck is flung back and forth in a rear-end crash, straining its muscles and ligaments.

Symptoms & signs

  • Neck pain and stiffness, often starting the next day
  • headache at the base of the skull
  • shoulder and arm pain
  • dizziness
  • poor concentration and sleep

🚩 Get help if…

  • call 112 / 911 now Numbness, tingling or weakness in arms or legs
  • call 112 / 911 now Can't turn the head 45° either way after a crash
  • call 112 / 911 now Neck pain after a crash if over 65 or with a dangerous fall
  • see a doctor soon Headache, dizziness or neck pain getting worse

Where it strikes

Medical treatment

  • Canadian C-spine rule to decide on imaging
  • stay active — collars delay recovery
  • simple pain relief
  • physiotherapy exercise
  • psychological support if pain persists

Natural & lifestyle

  • Gentle movement from day one
  • heat
  • a good sleeping posture

Emerging & experimental

  • Radiofrequency denervation for facet pain
  • cognitive functional therapy

Alternative, off-label & anecdotal

Approaches used outside the guidelines, with what their supporters report and what testing has found so far.

  • Chiropractic manipulation — trials disagree; rare artery injuries after neck manipulation mixed evidence
  • Acupuncture — trials disagree mixed evidence
  • Magnesium and CBD oil — anecdotal anecdotal / traditional

ICD codes