While finding the right care for your whiplash injury, many questions related to treatment options are bound to come up.
Previously, we talked about the benefits of the MOVE method and a focus on anterior muscles, but what other recovery options might be great to explore? Let’s dive in.
Personally, I work with many patients using myofunctional therapy as one form of rehabilitation. What this means is that we work together through a different combination of physical exercises that specially target facial, oral, and throat muscles that help improve oral rest posture and relieve symptoms tied to jaw and neck pain, and headaches (just to name a few).
The added benefit when it comes to this type of therapy is that working together focuses on the development of a personalized treatment plan just right for you and your recovery.
Another treatment that's gaining traction is prolotherapy. This involves injecting an irritant (usually containing a dextrose solution) into the damaged ligaments to trigger the body’s healing response. Once stimulated, the ligaments will be repaired and the loose joints will be tightened.
Chiropractic care may also help regulate the body’s nervous system and pain response, as well as reduce inflammation, and improve overall neck function. One study found that chiropractic intervention, specifically the correction of the lordotic curve (the natural curvature of the neck), significantly improved neck pain and disability scores for patients with cervical instability.
Depending on the severity of your condition, surgery may be considered as a last resort.
Invasive treatments can be expensive and come with potential complications. Recovery can be lengthy, so weigh the risks and benefits carefully with your healthcare provider.
Now, if you still have difficulty swallowing, a choking sensation, and pain in the front of your neck even after going to therapy, then your injury might be under-treated.
Many patients and practitioners tend to focus solely on treating the posterior (back) neck muscles. After all, that's where most of the pain and discomfort is typically felt, right? However, neglecting the anterior (front) neck muscles can be a crucial mistake in the recovery process.
Imagine your anterior muscles as the core of your neck — similar to how your abdominal muscles support your lower back. When these muscles are weak or have been injured, they can't properly support the cervical vertebrae and the skull. This can lead to increased instability and other painful symptoms, particularly for people with hypermobility issues.
Strengthening exercises that target the anterior neck muscles are essential to recovery. By treating the neck in its entirety — not just the posterior muscles — you can significantly improve your symptoms and quality of life.
Keep your head up (literally and figuratively). Stubborn whiplash injuries can be a real challenge. Remember, you are stronger than your injury, and with the right support, you can overcome it.
The key is to stay proactive in your treatment. Finding and working closely with a team of dedicated healthcare providers who are on your side will mean more to your recovery than anything else. Your recovery is a collaborative effort; commit to your exercises, and don't be afraid to speak up if something isn't working for you.
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