Whiplash is a sprain or strain of the cervical spine and spinal cord at the junction of the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae. Symptoms of this condition include headaches, dizziness, sore muscles, inflammation, and even weight gain. Weight gain can occur months after the initial trauma.        

During whiplash, the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the throat and posterior and interior to the larynx, can be affected causing it to become sluggish. This sluggishness comes from a lack of triiodothyronine, the hormone produced by the thyroid that increases the rate of metabolism. When our metabolism slows down, weight gain occurs.        

It is common to not make the connection between whiplash and weight gain, but the good news is there is treatment for this condition. A neuromuscular therapy routine for whiplash treats the posterior, anterior and lateral muscles of the neck, along with the anterior cervical muscles and ligaments.        

Individuals who experience distortion and biomechanical dysfunction from other conditions, such as computer neck, can also find relief with neuromuscular therapy. It is used to locate and release spasms and hypertension in the tissue, eliminate trigger points that cause referred pain, rebuild the strength of injured tissues, assist venous and lymphatic flow, and restore postural alignment, proper biomechanics and flexibility to the tissues.  

Location: Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center, 628 Twin Ponds Rd., Breinigsville, PA. For more information or to schedule a neuromuscular therapy appointment, call John Ezaki, licensed massage therapist, at 610-462-610.