Can Accident That Happen Then Now Which I Call A Bad Sprain Or Slight Whiplash Now Cause Arthritis In My Neck?

Posted on Fri, 21 Aug 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 Answered on

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a motor vehicle accident about 15 years ago and hurt my neck. I was in the military but didn't seek medical treatment. My neck was just feeling sprained and sore for months. Today the pain has progressed to stiffness and limiting my range of motion. Can that accident that happen then now which I call a bad sprain or slight whiplash now cause arthritis in my neck? This seem to be a continuing issue that has never gotten any better. Will this issue possibly continue?

Answered by Dr. Divya Agarwal (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
hi yes it is possible

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It is possible that the injury you suffered many years ago, has now progressed to arthritis/cervical spondylosis.
It may possibly continue as it may be chronic spondylosis.
it may require rehabilitation/ graded exercises to strengthen neck musculature so that the pain/stiffness and the range of motion improve.
however the problem may still progress albeit slowly.
other precautions like maintaining the levels of calcium, vitamin D will also help.
NSAIDs/muscle relaxants/pregabalin may help with the soreness.
Hope that helps.
regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj