Massage for Whiplash: Things to Know
Whiplash is a common and irritating injury, most typically associated with car accidents. Given that whiplash can cause considerable discomfort, many sufferers often seek more holistic relief options to supplement and accelerate the recovery process, massage therapy being one of the most common. But does massage for whiplash help improve discomfort and pain? In the following comprehensive guide, we’re going to take a look at the role of massage therapy in treating whiplash, going over some of the potential benefits and techniques involved. Let’s take a look!
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a common non-medical term that describes a range of neck injuries usually related to a sudden distortion of the neck. In medical terms, it's often referred to as cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injury. It involves the rapid movement of the neck backwards and then forwards, much like the cracking of a whip, hence the term 'whiplash.'
The injuries can range from minor neck strain to more severe cases involving torn muscles, ligaments, or tendons, or in rare instances, fractured or dislocated vertebrae. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and fatigue.
What causes whiplash?
Whiplash is most often caused by rear-end car accidents. The force of the impact can cause the head and neck to jerk forward and backward rapidly, resulting in injury to the structures of the neck. Other causes of whiplash can include physical abuse, contact sports such as football or boxing, falls, or other high-impact activities where extreme acceleration-deceleration forces are exerted on the neck.
Can massage help with whiplash?
Incorporating massage therapy for whiplash into your recovery regimen can bring about several benefits, particularly when it comes to managing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing the overall healing process:
Reduction of muscle tension
Whiplash and massage therapy go hand in hand when it comes to reducing muscle tension. After a whiplash injury, the muscles and ligaments in the neck often tighten up as a protective response, leading to discomfort or pain. Whiplash massage therapy helps by relaxing these tightened muscles and reducing painful spasms.
Improved blood circulation
Massage for whiplash can also increase blood circulation to the affected areas. Enhanced blood flow provides essential nutrients and oxygen to the neck tissues, promoting faster and healthier healing.
Boosting mobility
Massage therapy for whiplash can help improve neck mobility; often, people who suffer from whiplash have difficulty moving their neck due to pain and stiffness. Targeted massage techniques can enhance flexibility and aid in restoring normal movement. Plus, if you opt for mobile massage therapy, you don’t even need to leave your home to reap the benefits of a relaxing massage!
Improved mood
Massage does wonders not just for your muscles and joints but also your mood! There’s a reason why you’re always feeling good after a massage therapy session - massage therapy helps promote your body’s production of serotonin (aka your happy hormones) leaving you feeling relaxed, calmer and more at ease.
Massage techniques for whiplash
There are several massage techniques that can be used in cases of whiplash, with one of the most common being the Swedish massage, which uses long, kneading strokes to relax muscles and improve blood flow. Deep tissue massage can also be useful, as it works on the deeper layers of muscles to relieve chronic muscle tension and knots.
Another technique, myofascial release, targets the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles. This technique can help alleviate pain and improve neck movement by releasing tension in this tissue. Neuromuscular therapy is also a valuable technique, which focuses on reducing pain that arises from trigger points - aka knots that form in muscles when they are injured or overworked. This therapy is particularly useful in treating whiplash-related headaches - but always speak with your massage therapist first before deciding on which massage therapy is best suited for your needs.
FAQs
How soon after a whiplash injury can I receive a massage?
It's recommended to wait a few days to a week after the injury before receiving a massage; this is because it’s best to wait until the initial inflammation and acute symptoms start to subside before incorporating massage therapy. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
Can whiplash massage therapy replace medical treatment?
No, massage therapy for whiplash is a complementary therapy, meaning that it should be used as a supplement alongside traditional medical treatments for optimal recovery.
How often should I get a massage for whiplash?
The frequency of massages depends on the severity of your injury and your personal recovery process. It's best to work with a licensed massage therapist and other healthcare professionals to develop.