Overview
Whiplash is a non-medical term used to describe neck pain following an injury to the soft tissues of your neck. It is caused by an abnormal motion or force applied to your neck that causes movement beyond the neck’s normal range of motion. Whiplash can be the result of a motor vehicle accident, sporting activities, accidental falls, and assault. The general term “whiplash” is used to decribe a more specific injury such as a cervical sprain, strain, or hyperextension injury.
Causes
Motor vehicle accident
Sports injuries
Blows to the head from a falling object or being assaulted
Repetitive stress injuries or chronic strain involving the neck
Child abuse, particularly the shaking of a child
Symptoms
Neck pain
Neck swelling
Tenderness along the back of the neck
Muscle spasms
Difficulty moving the neck
Headache
Shooting pains from the neck into either the shoulder or arm
Diagnosis
X-rays
Physical examination
CT scan
MRI
Treatment
Application of ice and/or heat
Pain relieving or anti-inflammatory drugs
Massage
Rest
Range of motion exercises
Physical therapy
Source: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/whiplash/article_em.htm