Whiplash
A common aftermath of car accidents and trauma, whiplash occurs when forceful head movement stresses the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the neck. It may mimic radiculopathy, with pain traveling down the arm. Pain usually improves rapidly if addressed soon after the trauma, but may become chronic and disabling.
Signs and symptoms
(may include one or more):
- Neck pain and stiffness of muscles
- Headaches and dizziness
- Ringing of ears and blurred vision
- Pain in shoulders, arms or jaw
- A “knot” in a muscle
- Numbness in arms
Why it hurts:
You may feel pain from the injured soft tissue any time you move it.
Non-surgical treatment options
- Soft cervical collar
- Ice compresses