Spinal Injuries & Trauma
Whiplash Injuries
Understanding Neck Trauma from Sudden Motion
Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that happens when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, straining the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the neck. Although often linked with car accidents, whiplash can also occur during sports, falls, or other sudden impacts. At Desert Spine and Pain, we know whiplash can be frustrating — patients often feel pain without obvious signs on imaging. Under the expert care of Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, one of the nation’s leading neurosurgeons, our Phoenix team provides accurate diagnosis, reassurance, and comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s recovery.
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What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck strain injury caused by rapid back-and-forth movement of the cervical spine. It may affect:
Muscles – Leading to soreness and stiffness
Ligaments – Causing instability if stretched or torn
Facet joints – Resulting in pain and inflammation
Discs – In rare cases, leading to herniation See Herniated Disc
Nerves – Compression or irritation may develop if swelling narrows space around roots
Causes and Risk Factors
Car accidents – Rear-end collisions are the most common cause
Sports injuries – Contact sports like football or wrestling
Falls – Sudden head or neck movements
Physical assaults – Forceful blows to the head or body
Occupational hazards – Jobs involving repetitive neck strain
Symptoms of Whiplash
Neck pain and stiffness
Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
Shoulder and upper back pain
Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms
Dizziness or difficulty concentrating
Limited range of motion in the neck
Fatigue and irritability
Diagnosis
At Desert Spine and Pain, we use a thorough process:
History & exam – Reviewing accident details and symptom patterns
Imaging –
X-rays to rule out fractures or dislocations
MRI or CT to check for disc, ligament, or nerve involvement
Neurological testing – If symptoms suggest nerve root irritation
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Care
Medications (anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, pain relievers)
Physical Therapy for stretching, posture, and gentle strengthening
Heat, ice, and massage therapy
Activity modification (avoiding sudden neck movements)
Bracing (short-term use in selected cases)
Interventional Treatments
Trigger point injections – For persistent muscle spasms
Facet joint injections – If arthritis or inflammation develops
Epidural Steroid Injections – If disc or nerve irritation is present
Surgical Care
Rare for whiplash, but surgery may be considered if:
Disc herniation causes severe nerve compression
Instability is identified due to torn ligaments
Recovery Timeline
Mild cases – Often resolve in days to weeks
Moderate cases – May take several months with therapy
Chronic whiplash-associated disorder – In some, symptoms persist beyond 6 months and may require long-term management
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Nationally recognized neurosurgeon – Dr. Greenwald provides advanced expertise in post-traumatic spine and neck injuries
Conservative-first care – Most whiplash cases improve without surgery
Comprehensive services – From therapy to injections, with surgical expertise available if needed
Compassionate reassurance – We guide patients through recovery, reducing fear and uncertainty
Frequently Asked Questions
Is whiplash a serious injury?
Most cases are mild, but some can cause long-term pain and dysfunction if not treated properly.
How long does it take to recover from whiplash?
Mild injuries resolve in weeks, while more severe cases may take months.
Can whiplash cause permanent damage?
Rarely. With proper care, most patients recover fully. Untreated whiplash may lead to chronic pain.
Do I need imaging after a car accident?
Yes, especially if you have severe pain, numbness, or weakness, to rule out fractures or disc injury.
How does Desert Spine and Pain treat whiplash differently?
We combine advanced diagnostics, conservative-first treatment, and minimally invasive options under Dr. Greenwald’s expertise.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’re experiencing ongoing pain or stiffness from a whiplash injury, prompt evaluation and treatment can help prevent long-term complications. Dr. Greenwald and his caring team will develop a personalized plan to relieve your pain, restore mobility, and help you return to your normal activities with confidence. Every step you take toward treatment brings you closer to comfort and recovery. Schedule your consultation today and let us help you start healing from your whiplash injury with expert, compassionate care.
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Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon with extensive experience treating whiplash injuries, which often result from sudden acceleration-deceleration forces such as those sustained in auto accidents or sports impacts. Whiplash can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even radiating nerve symptoms if left untreated. Dr. Greenwald uses advanced diagnostic imaging to evaluate the soft tissues, discs, and joints of the cervical spine, ensuring accurate diagnosis and personalized care. His treatment approach focuses on reducing pain, restoring motion, and preventing chronic issues through a combination of conservative therapies, targeted pain management, and minimally invasive procedures when necessary. Patients throughout South Florida trust Dr. Greenwald for his expertise and compassionate approach to spinal and neck injury recovery.
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