Whiplash is a neck injury that happens when your head is suddenly and forcefully thrown backward and then forward — like the motion of a whip. It’s most commonly caused by car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, but can also result from sports injuries, falls, or any sudden impact.

What Happens to Your Body During Whiplash?

When the neck is whipped back and forth quickly, it can strain or injure:

• Muscles
• Tendons
• Ligaments
• Joints
• Sometimes even nerves

This leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement in the neck and shoulders.

Common Symptoms of Whiplash:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
• Shoulder or upper back pain
• Dizziness or fatigue
• Difficulty turning your head
• In some cases, numbness or tingling in the arms

Symptoms can appear right away or days later after the injury.

Massage therapy can be a great way to support healing from whiplash by:

• Relaxing tight muscles
• Increasing blood flow
• Reducing pain and inflammation
• Improving range of motion
• Relieving stress and tension in the body

If you’ve been in a car accident or have neck pain after a sudden jolt, don’t ignore it. Whiplash is real and treatable — and early care makes a big difference. Massage therapy, especially when combined with chiropractic or physical therapy, can help your body recover more quickly and comfortably.