What to do? Ice or Heat?
Well, the first few days of a Whiplash (Motor Vehicle Accident MVA, falling down, etc.) needs to be iced. There is a reason that the muscles of your neck is in spasm. It is protecting the body from further damage. The ice will calm the nerves down a little bit and possibly even bring that headache down. After about a week or so will the heating pad or warm compress benefit that aching back or neck of yours. Also, maintaining your Range of Motion or ROM will help you aide the muscles that have been affected. During the initial stage of the injury the muscles that are injured are completely shut off. Therefore, the muscles supporting the neck or back are doing twice the work.
Think of it this way, it’s like 10 workers doing an awesome job for a company. 3 of those workers now have decided to go for a coffee break and decided to take 3 weeks worth of a coffee break. Eventually, the 7 workers that are now doing twice the amount of work will complain and maybe even walk out.
It’s key to see your health care practitioner; massage therapist, physio, or personal trainer that are informed and experienced in these situations.
So like Vanilla Ice said it “Ice, Ice Baby!”
Be well and live even Better!
Garnet Santicruz
RMT/CPT