Cervical Whiplash

Cervical Whiplash is an injury to the neck that occurs after a sudden and forceful back and forth movement of the neck. Most people associate whiplash with car accidents but whiplash can occur after any after any rapid aggressive movement and can occur after traumatic falls, diving accidents or sports injuries. During whiplash a significant force from behind causes the head to rapidly propel forward. When this happens the muscles in the neck and upper back contract quickly and forcefully to prevent the head from moving too far forward. Immediately after the person may not feel anything but within 1-2 days the neck muscles continue to guard after the initial accident. This causes the muscles from the initial strain in the neck to strain and develop significant tightness, trigger points, and pain. Physical therapy focuses on alleviating the muscle tightness and spinal stiffness that develops through hands on techniques and exercises. Treatment for whiplash tends to produce excellent results in physical therapy. Please see some photos below for examples of how treat cervical whiplash. If you would like to schedule an appointment please reach out to us.