Whiplash injury

Background

• Also known as Acute Cervical Strain
• Sudden acceleration-deceleration trauma that occurs when car is rear-ended

Clinical Features

• Pain, stiffness, paracervical muscle tenderness

Differential Diagnosis

Neck Trauma

• Penetrating neck trauma
• Blunt neck trauma
  • Vertebral and carotid artery dissection
  • Strangulation
  • Whiplash injury
• Cervical injury
  • Cervical fractures and dislocations
  • Cervical injury (peds)
  • Cervical spine clearance
• Neurogenic shock
• Spinal cord injury

Evaluation

Diagnosis by history and physical exam

Management

• Use C-Spine (NEXUS) criteria to determine whether imaging is required
• Consider brain, cord, carotid/vertebral artery dissection if neuro findings are present

Disposition

• Generally outpatient management

See Also

• Neck pain
• Blunt neck trauma
• Cervical spine clearance