My Spine - Cervical
Figure 5.1
This diagram illustrates a whiplash injury. ote how the neck is overextend-
ed and then hyperflexed. Especially the extension injury damages the facet
joints of the neck. The disrupted joint surfaces become inflamed and can lead
to arthritic changes.
The ligaments, muscles, nerves and other soft tissue can also be damaged by
the tremendous strain placed on them during a whiplash injury. The interver-
tebral discs can also be damaged and lead to neck pain and stiffness. If the
disc tears, it may press against a nerve root or even the spinal cord leading
to nerve irritation or damage. This can lead to arm pain, pins and needles
and even weakness of muscles.
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