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Why is it that sometimes the signs of whiplash don't show until a day or two after an accident?

Whiplash, an injury to the neck following the head being forcefully thrown forward and then back again, can cause severe pain and even disability. It is, however, not always obvious immediately following an accident. The pain may start only after a few days and then can become gradually worse. These injuries can be stiffness and pain in the neck, towards the head, in the jaw, or even in the chest, upper arms, and shoulders.

Reference: 

Andy Chien, B.Phty (Hons) et al. Whiplash (Grade II) and Cervical Radiculopathy Share a Similar Sensory Presentation: An Investigation Using Quantitative Sensory Testing. In Clinical Journal of Pain September 2008. Vol. 24. No. 7. Pp. 595-603.

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