Whiplash (neck strain injury). It usually occurs when there is a sudden extension or flexion of the neck. When the athlete is struck from behind during contact sports the injury occurs. The head is thrown both forward and backward. Soft tissues of the neck such as cervical muscles, ligaments, intervertebral discs and nerve roots can be injured. That causes stiffness, neck pain and loss of motion.
The back, the hips and the trunk are the first body segments and joints to experience movement during a whiplash. Forward movement, which acts to compress the spine in these structures is accompanied by upward motion. This motion causes the head to produce tension when moving backwards into extension. It produces tension where the upper segments flex and the lower cervical segment extends. With this motion of the vertebrae, posterior components including facet joints are acutely compressed and the anterior structures are separated.
Cause of whiplash injury
Sharp collision with another athlete or any equipment. Tackle from behind like in football. Blow to the head in boxing.
Whiplash symptoms
Stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulder or between shoulder blades. Blurry vision or ringing in the ears. Fatigue and irritability.
Complications unattended
Whiplash injury can create chronic symptoms of pain, loss of movement and inflexibility. There are other symptoms with worsening or the continuation of sleep loss, depression, fatigue, concentration and memory loss. Symptoms may indicate significant injury with consequences to the spinal vertebrae.
Whiplash treatment
The regimen that is RICER. Immobilization using a cervical collar.
Whiplash rehabilitation and prevention
The neck will be immobilized with a brace. Early movement is usually encouraged to prevent stiffening. Flexibility training, low-impact strength and rehabilitation need to follow the complete healing process of discs, tendons and ligaments. Protective gear and a proper warm-up routine are important to minimise the risk of whiplash.
Long-term prognosis
The prognosis for whiplash injuries is usually great, given maintenance, the neck might be prone to re-injury though symptoms may persist.
Whiplash treatment – Neck massage Watford
A neck massage concentrates on the neck and shoulder muscles. Neck massage includes the scalenes, sternocleidomastoid and upper trapezius. A neck massage will help to reduce acute pain, increase relaxation, relieve tension, reduce headaches and increase relaxation. Many techniques, such as STR and MET are used to improve blood circulation, reduce joint stiffness and improve tissue elasticity. Our sports massage therapist at Lucas Massage Therapy in Watford uses neck massage to help reduce pain, tension and tightness of the muscles. Whiplash is a traumatic injury and needs to be addressed soon after the injury to avoid any chronic problems.
Experience the joy of moving freely again
Neck Massage to help you feel better, move better & be pain free
What are the benefits of neck massage for whiplash injury?
- Improved blood circulation
- Reduction of muscle tension
- Muscle relaxation
- Improved range of movement
- Pain relief
Neck Stretching Exercises
Neck Strengthening Exercises
