Whiplash question?

Can it take a couple of days to feel the effects of whiplash, or will you have pain immediately?

Yes, it can sometimes take a day or so to feel the effects of whiplash. When you're in an accident, your body starts to release adrenaline and endorphins, which can "mask" the initial onset of pain. Once you, and your body, start to calm down, that's when the pain can start to creep in.

I was in an auto accident, and at first, I just felt a little battered (mostly from where the seatbelt locked and my body wanted to keep going!), but I was so frazzled that I barely noticed. It wasn't until the next morning that I REALLY felt the pain. This happened on Christmas Day, and a weekend, so I couldn't get into the doctor til Monday, and I didn't think it warranted a trip to the ER.

The doctor confirmed that it can take a day or two for whiplash symptoms to really kick in, and x-rays showed that I did have it. Also keep in mind that whiplash type injuries don't always just affect your neck. Depending on the impact, several levels of your spine can be affected, so if you have x-rays done, make sure they check your WHOLE spine!

Generally it is felt right away.But the shock of an accident etc may "cushion" the blow and you might not feel the effects for a few days. Go see your Dr. to be checked.
GL

According to the doctor and chiropractor I went to after an accident people are more likely to feel or complain of whiplash after a few days. There is some pain at forst often but the actual muscular problems that characterize whiplash tend to show up later.