Damage to the nerves and ligaments in the neck caused by a sudden, uncontrolled, and usually unexpected movement of the head. Players of rugby and American football may sustain a whiplash injury when tackled by two players simultaneously, one at the back and the other at the front. Rear-end vehicle collisions are notorious for causing neck strains as the vulnerable neck vertebrae are first extended and then fully flexed. Treatment usually includes wearing a restricting neck collar. Neck injuries should always be treated with great respect and, with the exception of obviously minor injuries, medical advice should be sought to ensure there is no serious injury. The risk of serious injury from a whiplash can be reduced by adherence to the rules (for example, no high tackles in rugby), wearing appropriate protective equipment, and special strength training for the neck.

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