Whiplash – Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

Key Points

Whiplash is caused by a sudden forceful movement of the head and neck, most often in road traffic accidents or contact sports.
It can injure muscles, ligaments, discs, and nerves, leading to pain, stiffness, and headaches.
Symptoms may appear immediately or hours after the incident.
At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, we provide osteopathic care, rehabilitation, and tailored advice to support recovery.

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury to the neck caused by rapid forward and backward movement of the head.

This motion can overstretch or damage:

Muscles and ligaments (causing stiffness and pain)
Discs and joints (leading to inflammation or irritation)
Nerve roots (causing arm symptoms in more severe cases)

Symptoms of Whiplash

Neck pain and stiffness, often delayed after injury
Headaches, especially at the base of the skull
Shoulder and upper back pain
Dizziness or blurred vision in some cases
Tingling or weakness in the arms (if nerve irritation is involved)
Reduced neck mobility

Causes & Risk Factors

Road traffic collisions (rear-end impacts most common)
Contact sports (rugby, martial arts, football)
Falls or sudden jolts
Pre-existing neck stiffness or poor posture may increase risk
More common in adults than children

Diagnosis of Whiplash

At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, diagnosis includes:

Osteopathic assessment – posture, neck mobility, neurological checks if symptoms radiate
Clinical history – mechanism of injury and symptom onset
Referral – for X-ray or MRI if severe trauma, suspected fracture, or nerve involvement
Blood tests – rarely needed, but may be relevant if inflammation is prolonged

Self-Help for Whiplash

Keep moving the neck gently — avoid complete rest, which can slow recovery
Apply ice in the first 48 hours, then heat to ease stiffness
Use supportive pillows at night
Gentle stretching as pain allows
Pain relief medication if needed (under GP advice)
Avoid prolonged sitting or poor posture

Treatment Options at Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

Osteopathic care – mobilisation, joint movement, and soft tissue therapy
Exercise rehabilitation – posture correction, gentle neck strengthening, mobility exercises
Sports massage – release of tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
Return-to-activity guidance – pacing recovery, advice on driving, work, and sport
Referral pathways – for imaging or specialist care if red flags are present

FAQs – Whiplash

Q: How long does whiplash last?
Mild cases improve within 2–4 weeks. Some symptoms can persist for several months if untreated.

Q: Do I need a scan after whiplash?
Not always. Scans are recommended if there are red flags (severe weakness, suspected fracture, or neurological symptoms).

Q: Should I rest or keep moving?
Gentle movement is encouraged. Prolonged rest can slow recovery.

Q: Can whiplash cause long-term problems?
Most cases resolve, but persistent stiffness or headaches may need ongoing management.

Book Your Appointment

Don’t let whiplash symptoms linger after an accident or sports injury. Book your whiplash assessment in Bromley today for tailored treatment and advice.

📍 Bromley Sports Injury Clinic | Same-week appointments available

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