Understanding Whiplash Injuries & Symptoms-when the human body is subjected to a sudden thrust or a short spell of extreme physical effort, the muscles around the neck tend to contract suddenly. This happens as a reflex action among the neck muscles to prevent a possible, internal injury within the head.



This sudden contraction of muscles stretches or tears the muscles and ligaments around the neck region. It should be understood that the neck region consists of soft disc-like bony structures called vertebrae. When subjected to sudden muscle contractions, the vertebrae are displaced from their normal configuration. Each stretched vertebra in turn causes pulling of the nearby nerve roots. This is why whiplash injury symptoms usually include radiating pain around the upper back, head and the shoulder-blade region. People suspecting a whiplash injury shouldn't be apprehensive about approaching a physician.



Most whiplash injuries can be treated with basic medications and physiotherapy sessions. Even chiropractors are known to alleviate whiplash symptoms. Surgical intervention is needed only in extreme cases such as whiplash injuries sustained in high-impact, automobile accidents.