Whiplash is the term used when the muscles, ligaments or tendons in your neck have been injured.
Your neck consists of 7 bones called the Cervical Vertebrae. These neck bones are connected to each other by muscles, ligaments and tendons. When the neck is moved suddenly and sharply, as happens in automobile accidents, these muscles, ligaments, and tendons become stretched or torn.
If you have suffered Whiplash, there is usually pain, stiffness and tenderness in your neck. The pain may keep you awake at night or you may notice numbness that travels down either of your arms.
If you think you are experiencing any of these symptoms then you should consult with a healthcare professional. What you may find the most helpful is their advice on what exercises you should do at home.
A good sitting posture at home or at work may help. Sit upright. Don’t sit at your desk with your head bent forward or with your back stooped over.
A supportive pillow can be very helpful. One of the pillows that are most recommended is the Mediflow Waterbase pillow. It has an easy-to-fill water pouch built right into your pillow that allows for customizable support. The pillow is clinically proven in a Johns Hopkins study to reduce neck pain and improve the quality of sleep.
Even after you have recovered from a whiplash injury, it is important to maintain a proper posture, use a supportive pillow and to continue to exercise your neck muscles. This will help reduce the chance of further neck strains