In the previous article, we took a look at the various aspects of a car accident that could determine the severity of injuries sustained. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whiplash injuries as a result of a car accident.
Whiplash is a term used to describe a neck injury, in which the neck is thrown forward with great force and then whipped back, causing a sudden lengthening and then contraction of the neck muscles. This type of injury can lead to chronic pain and wreak havoc on one’s life if ignored and left untreated.
Within the first 48 hours of an auto collision, the body’s inflammatory response will kick in, resulting in swelling, pain, and stiffness. Headaches and dizziness can also accompany a whiplash injury. Damage to the soft tissues of the neck (muscles, tendons, ligaments) is likely, as well as possible injury to the cervical spine if the impact was severe enough. Over time, if left untreated, pain and stiffness may develop in the upper back, extending down to the sacrum. Numbness and tingling in the arms and fingers can also be a result of untreated whiplash injuries.
Massage therapy, when applied to whiplash injuries, can help accelerate healing and reduce long-term discomfort and pain. Massage can increase oxygen and nutrient flow to damaged soft tissue, promoting healing. Additionally, when neuromuscular therapy techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy are used, massage can address the pain-spasm-pain cycle that begins with this kind of injury.
If you, or someone you know, has been in an auto accident recently and requires treatment for your injuries, check out the third article in this series: Medical Massage for Auto Injuries.
Other Articles in the Auto Accidents: Injuries and Treatment series:
Injuries: Beyond Initial Impact of a Car Accident (Part 1)
Medical Massage for Injuries (Part 3)