Page 2 - Whiplash

What Is Cervical Sprain/Strain?
Cervical sprain/strain is an overstretching or overuse
injury to the muscles and ligaments of the neck. A strain
refers to an injury to a muscle, occurring when the mus-
cle and tendon are stretched or
overloaded. A sprain is a ligament injury. Sprains and
strains often occur simultaneously. Excessive bending
forward or backward of the neck, can lead to injury .

What Causes Cervical Sprain/Strain?
Cervical Sprain/Strains usually occur as a result of
experiencing a traumatic event which results in a rapid
movement of the head on the neck. Examples of such
events include vehicle accidents, accidental falls,
assault, and other traumas. Cervical Sprain/Strains may
also be caused by lower velocity mechanisms such as a
prolonged strained posture (looking overhead to paint,
looking down to read). Chronic Sprains/Strains usually
result from poor posture and/or activities requiring
repetitive motion and strained postures.