Does anti-inflammatory medication treat whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth movement of the head. Muscles, ligaments, joints, and nerves may contribute to pain, stiffness, headache, or discomfort spreading into the shoulder or arm. An anti-inflammatory medicine can make these symptoms easier to manage for some people, particularly soon after injury, but it does not establish the full extent of an injury. Improvement is usually supported by a gradual return to ordinary neck movement and activity, adjusted to symptoms.

Take medicine according to the package directions or prescription, and do not combine similar products without professional advice. Mention stomach ulcers, kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, pregnancy, allergies, or blood-thinning medicines before using it. Gentle neck movement is often more useful than holding the neck rigid for long periods, but exercises should match your assessment. Follow any advice about driving, work, and lifting. A physiotherapist can guide mobility, posture, and a staged return to activity when pain or stiffness persists.

Seek urgent assessment after a neck injury if you have arm or leg weakness, worsening numbness, trouble walking, severe unrelenting neck pain, or a new problem controlling your bladder or bowel. Emergency care is also appropriate for confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, a severe headache, or unusual drowsiness after a head impact. Arrange review if symptoms are not gradually improving or medication causes black stools, vomiting blood, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether your neck needs imaging or a neurological examination, which medicine is suitable, and when to stop it. Ask which movements are safe and how to return to work or sport without aggravating symptoms.