Whiplash: symptoms, how long it lasts and what helps
Based on NHS guidance, last reviewed by the NHS on 19 August 2026.
Reviewed by Harvir Ubhi, HCPC-registered physiotherapist. Last reviewed 28 September 2026.
The short version: whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden movement of the head, like the jolt in a car crash. Symptoms can take hours to appear. It usually gets better within 2 to 3 months. Keep your neck moving, keep up your normal activities, and skip the neck collar. See a GP if it isn't better after a week.
Whiplash symptoms
- neck pain
- neck stiffness
- headaches
- pain and stiffness in your shoulders and arms
Delayed symptoms are normal. It can take several hours after the injury for symptoms to start, so feeling fine straight after an accident doesn't mean you've escaped it.
How long does whiplash last?
Usually 2 to 3 months, according to the NHS, though some people have symptoms for longer. What you do in the first weeks matters: keeping your neck moving is part of what helps it recover.
What helps whiplash
- 1
Keep going
Carry on with your normal activities as much as you can, even if it's uncomfortable at first.
- 2
Keep your neck moving
Don't rest your neck for long periods, and don't wear a neck collar or brace.
- 3
Painkillers
Paracetamol or ibuprofen. A pharmacist can tell you what's safe for you.
- 4
Physiotherapy
If it's slow to improve, a physio can give you exercises to get your neck moving and strong again, and help you get back to your normal activities.
- 5
GP treatment
A GP may prescribe stronger painkillers, refer you to physiotherapy or a pain specialist, or offer psychological support if the injury is affecting you in other ways.
Seeing a physio for whiplash
You don't need a GP referral to see a private physio. In London a first appointment usually costs £70 to £130. Tell us what happened and a HCPC-registered physiotherapist on our team will match you with someone who treats neck injuries regularly.
It's free, and most people hear back within 24 hours.
When to see a GP
The NHS says see a GP if:
- your symptoms haven't improved after a week
- painkillers aren't helping
- you're worried about your pain
Whiplash questions
How long does whiplash last?
The NHS says whiplash usually gets better within 2 to 3 months, though some people have symptoms for longer.
Can whiplash symptoms be delayed?
Yes. The NHS says it can take several hours for symptoms to start after you injure your neck, so you can feel fine at first and stiff and sore later.
Should I wear a neck collar or brace?
No. The NHS advises against neck braces and collars for whiplash, and against resting your neck for long periods. Keeping it moving helps it recover.
What does whiplash feel like?
Neck pain and stiffness, often with headaches, and sometimes pain and stiffness in your shoulders and arms.
I'm making a claim. Does that change anything?
Not for your recovery. This page is about getting better. If you're also making an insurance or compensation claim, your insurer or solicitor handles that side.
Related: trapped nerve in your neck · shoulder pain · upper back pain
Call NHS 111 or get urgent help if you have:
- severe pain that painkillers aren't helping
- pins and needles or tingling
- problems walking or sitting upright
- sudden electric-shock feelings in your neck, back, arms or legs
- weakness in your hands, arms or legs
Sources
- NHS, Whiplash (last reviewed 19 August 2026). nhs.uk/conditions/whiplash
- London physio prices: PhysioMatch London survey of 20 clinics, September 2026
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you're worried about your symptoms, speak to a GP, call NHS 111, or in an emergency call 999.