- When your neck is stretched quickly as would happen in a high-speed accident, an immediate muscle spasm will occur to protect your neck from harm. When a more gradual stretch occurs, the receptors do not always recognize there is a problem, so the protective mechanism does not occur, often leading to injury.
- In the initial stages, a small amount of rest is required to help reduce inflammation. However, it is equally important to try to keep your neck moving. This is because, as your body heals, scar tissue may be formed which can cause issues with flexibility. Preventing this will hopefully lead to a faster recovery.
