The duration of your symptoms will depend on the severity of the injury and whether other structures, such as nerves or tendons, have been affected. Many people begin to notice the signs of whiplash within 24 hours of a car crash. The initial shock of what just happened could minimize how serious your injuries seem, preventing you from feeling any pain until days or even weeks later.
For some, symptoms go away after a week or two. Others can experience late whiplash syndrome. This occurs when symptoms last at least two years. If you’re still experiencing pain or other symptoms after 10 weeks, it could indicate an accompanying injury, such as:
Bone spur
Torn vertebral disc
Facet joint injury
Compressed nerve
Herniated disc
Whether your injury is minor or severe, it’s crucial that you seek prompt treatment after leaving the accident scene. It’s better to be safe than sorry and begin a prescription regimen or chiropractic care to prevent ongoing pain and possible complications in the future.