Question
Hi Heidi,

I had whiplash 12 years ago and have had problems since with muscle spasms, decreased mobility and pain. but my question is related to my hands. I have all the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (particularly numbness) in both my hands, but my nerve test says my hands are perfect. The neurologist had no idea what the problem could be. Is it possible that my neck is related to the numbness? When I do that hoold your arms out and bend your neck back the other way - nothing odd happens. Do you have any other suggestions as to what it could be? Thanks in advance.Tina

Answer
Dear Tina, thank you for your question.
It is quite common that the neck causes symptoms (pain, numbness, tingling) to radiate into the arms and hands.
Scientific studies show that people with whiplash had a faster degeneration rate of the cervical spine than noninjured people.
What you need to do, is give your neck a rest! We spend 80-90% in a bent position and there is a constant strain on the neck. Sit in a straightback chair, pull your head back (so ears are over the shoulders) and tilt your head back, look up at the ceiling. Keep all your muscles, especially shoulders, relaxed. If this produces too much discomfort in the neck or makes the hands feel worse, use one hand to support your head. Tilt your head back and immediately raise it again, using your hand. Repeat this 3-5 times every 1-2 hours. If this works, your hands should start feeling better, but you may notice increased discomfort in the neck and upper back area. This is normal, as symptoms are moving back to the point of origin.Let me know if this helps.
Heidi