What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Whiplash follows a sudden neck movement, often during a vehicle collision, sport impact or fall. Pain and stiffness may be felt in the neck and may spread toward the shoulders or upper back. Headache can start near the base of the skull. Some people also notice tiredness, dizziness, blurred concentration or pins and needles. Symptoms may appear soon after the event or become clearer later as the muscles tighten.

The symptoms of [Whiplash](/conditions/whiplash/) can overlap with other injuries. [Neck Pain](/symptoms/neck-pain/) and [Neck Stiffness](/symptoms/neck-stiffness/) are useful descriptions to share during an assessment, particularly when you can explain how the injury happened.

Arrange an assessment when pain or stiffness persists after a sudden impact, especially if movement is limited or symptoms travel into an arm. Keep gentle ordinary movement within comfort and avoid activities that sharply worsen pain. A clinician may recommend [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/), [Manual Therapy](/treatments/manual-and-manipulative-therapy/manual-therapy/) or short-term [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/) when suitable for you.

Seek urgent care after an injury if you have severe or worsening neck pain, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, trouble walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion or a severe headache. These features may indicate a more serious neck, nerve or head injury.

Do I need an examination or imaging after this impact? Which movements should I keep doing? When can I return to driving, work or sport? What changes would mean I should seek urgent care?