What will happen to me?
Pain and stiffness from whiplash usually go away in a few days or weeks. But they can sometimes last longer.
Up to 2 out of 5 people still have some symptoms 15 years after their injury.1 We don't know why some people get more problems than others.2 Whiplash is more likely to cause disability than neck pain from other causes.
Strangely, one study found that, when people with whiplash expect to get better quickly, they really do make a better recovery.3
Sources for the information on this page:
- Squires B, Gargan MF, Bannister GC. Soft-tissue injuries of the cervical spine: 15 year follow-up. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, British Volume. 1996; 78: 955-957.
- Spitzer WO, Skovron ML, Salmi LR, et al. Scientific monograph of the Quebec Task Force on whiplash-associated disorders: redefining whiplash and it management. Spine. 1995; 20: 1-73. 7709266
- Holm LW, Carroll LJ, Cassidy JD, et al. Expectations for recovery important in the prognosis of whiplash injuries. PLoS Medicine. 2008; 5: e105. 18479182
This information was last updated in Jul 30, 2008
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This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved. |
