Whiplash Injury of the Neck

Whiplash injury to the neck is caused by a sudden exaggerated thrust of the head backward, forward and sometimes sideways. Abnormal forces are applied to muscles, ligaments, nerves, bones, intervertebral discs and blood vessels, as the weighty head moves beyond normal physiological limits. There may be no visible bruises or abrasions from this type of injury yet victims report classic symptoms. The symptoms are due to injuries of vertebrae and of soft tissues of the head and neck.

Hyperflexion

The head is propelled in a forward and downward motion in hyperflexion. A wedge-shaped deformity of the bone may be created if the anterior portion of the vertebrae are crushed. Intervertebral discs may be damaged. The discs may bulge or be herniated, irritating spinal nerves.

Hyperextension

The head is forced backward in hyperextension. Pieces of bone may be pulled from cervical vertebrae by a tear of the anterior longitudinal ligament. Spinous processes, which are the very back of the spine, may be fractured. Intervertebral discs may be compressed posteriorly and torn, anteriorly. Vertebral arteries may be stretched, pinched, or torn, causing an impediment to blood flow to the brain. Nerves of the cervical spine may also be injured.

Muscle Injury

Whiplash can cause injuries of neck muscles, ranging from minor strains and microhemorrages to sever tears. An acute inflammatory response follows, which may lead to muscle spasms and stiffness. Damaged muscles may develop scar tissue. Often new scar tissue is less elastic and less resistant to a future injury as the original healthy tissue.

Ligament Damage

Vertebrae are held in place by ligaments. Most of these ligaments are very small. In a whiplash accident, ligaments may be stretched, partially torn, deformed or completely ruptured. Damage or deformation of the ligaments can subject the joints to forces that result in degeneration and arthritic changes.