Automobile accidents are among the common causes of whiplash. When a vehicle stops suddenly or is hit from behind, the head may snap forward, then backward. When the head is jerked backward, it causes acute hyperextension of the cervical spine. About 20 percent of individuals who experience rear-end collisions later exhibit symptoms in the neck region, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Other sources of whiplash injuries include roller coasters and other amusement park rides, a blow to the head and being shaken. Whiplash can also result from sports injuries, including those that occur during:

• Contact sports, such as football, rugby, wrestling or boxing
• Mountain climbing
• Horseback riding
• Diving
• Gymnastics
• Rodeo

Whiplash is also associated with shaken baby syndrome, a severe form of head injury resulting from shaking an infant or child.