Question
L4-5-6-7-are having to be replaced by surguery. Had whiplash accident in 2005, also 2007 and 2 other whiplash injuries between 2005-2008, and now have found spurs growing on these disc's. Can you tell me that after the accident happened can it take about 4yrs for these spurs to start growing, or can they be there before the accident,are they a degenerative problem.I'm 51ys and very fit.

Answer
Hello, Paula,

Generally, bone spurs form at the attachments of tight muscles, in response to their pulls.

Whiplash injuries trigger reflexive muscular contractions that may last a long time, long enough to induce spur growth.  Such tensions also restrict freedom of neck movement.

It will be most helpful to undergo movement training to relax those tight muscles, as surgery will not accomplish that effect.

May I direct you to my article on whiplash injuries at somatics.com/whiplash.htm.

with regard,
Lawrence Gold