Whiplash is a type of neck pain caused by forceful back-and-forth movement. It usually occurs during car accidents, but it can also be the result of a sports injury or physical assault. It causes stiffness, pain with movement, tenderness, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Fortunately, whiplash usually goes away in time. Physical therapy exercises, pain medication, and massage therapy can assist with the healing process. Read on to find out more about whiplash and how massage can be beneficial.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when a person's neck is forced into a rapid back-and-forth motion. It commonly occurs in rear-end car accidents. However, it can also be the outcome of physical abuse or assault, or it may occur during sports activities.
Common symptoms of whiplash include:
- Neck stiffness
- Tenderness in the shoulders and upper back
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Worsening pain with movement
- Limited range of motion in the neck
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
- Headaches
In extreme cases, whiplash may also cause:
- Depression
- Memory issues
- Difficulty focusing
- Mood swings
- Insomnia
- Tinnitus
- Blurred vision
How Massage Can Help with Whiplash?
Massages are beneficial to whiplash because they increase the range of motion in the neck area. They relax the muscles to reduce pain and tension. They can break up scar tissue in the muscles and tissues to reduce pain and inflammation.
Several massage techniques can be used to address whiplash. Popular therapies include:
Cross-Fiber Friction Massage: Whiplash causes scar tissue to develop in the tissue, bone, and muscle fibers. The scarring leads to reduced flexibility and range of motion. A cross-fiber friction massage uses direct pressure to unstick and realign scar tissue and promote ease of movement.
Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage applies pressure directly to painful areas to relax stiff tissues and tight muscles. It reduces adhesion that builds up in tissues. It minimizes pain and soreness.
Trigger Point Massage Therapy: A whiplash injury causes myofascial tissues that connect muscles to tighten so they don’t function properly. Tigger point massage therapy uses light compression to improve oxygen flow and relax stiff muscles. It will reduce pain and facilitate movement in the muscles and joints.
Massage Revolution is Your Destination for Neck Pain Relief
Whiplash is not easy to deal with. It can last for days, weeks, or even months. Massage therapy will help you heal sooner so you can get past your injury and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Massage Revolution is the ideal destination for neck pain relief. We provide deep tissue massage, trigger point massage therapy, physical therapy, and more. Our caring and compassionate providers will help you heal quickly and avoid reinjury.
Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive services.
Massage Revolution’s Back & Neck Relief Center located in Manhattan Beach is the biggest trigger point therapy clinic in Los Angeles and the world.
Member savings plans are available. PPO insurance is also accepted.
