Whiplash is most commonly caused when one vehicle rear ends another. The head is suddenly jerked back and forth, causing the supporting muscles and ligaments to be over stretched or even torn.
The problem with whiplash is that symptoms may not appear until months or even years later. Joints or vertebrae can loose proper motion and stiffness and a sore or painful neck may result.
A common result is the loss of the normal forward curve of the neck. Whiplash symptoms may consist of headaches, dizziness, blurred vision and pain.
Treatment may include painkillers, that will only alleviate the symptoms, but does not cure or address the cause.