Following a concussion or whiplash injury, many individuals may experience neck pain which can either show up right away or weeks to months after the injury. The pain can be characterized by stiffness, tension, sharp pain, and discomfort associated with certain movements or behaviors, such as phone usage, and may feel deep or superficial.
Neck pain after concussion and whiplash can stem from various causes. It is essential to note that the force required to cause whiplash is typically sufficient to cause mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or concussion. Moreover, hitting your head may also affect your neck, leading to overlapping symptoms, making it a complex process to identify and treat the cause of your neck pain.
If it has been less than two weeks since the injury, there is a chance that your neck pain and other symptoms may subside without treatment. However, if you continue experiencing neck pain and other concussion symptoms three months after the injury, it is likely that you have post-concussion syndrome (PCS).
Unfortunately, persistent post-concussion symptoms do not resolve on their own, and seeking professional help is necessary. Our post-concussion clinic, Alpine Integrated Health and Injury, treats hundreds of patients every year who suffer from persistent concussion symptoms, including neck pain. Our approach involves identifying the cause of the pain and incorporating appropriate therapies into the patient’s treatment plan.
Neck Pain Symptoms that may be associated with a Traumatic brain injury can include:
Sharp pain that is present all the time
Tension
Stiffness
Pain when looking in a certain direction
Pain associated with certain behaviors
The feeling of not being able to support the weight of your head
Weakness or tingling in the arms, legs, hands, or fingers
The worsening of symptoms over time
Possible causes of neck pain associated with a traumatic brain injury:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the neck is forcefully jerked back and forth, such as during a car accident. This can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and nerves in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Muscle strain: A traumatic brain injury can cause involuntary muscle movements or spasms that can strain the muscles in the neck, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Post-concussion syndrome: Some individuals may develop post-concussion syndrome after a traumatic brain injury, which can cause persistent headaches, neck pain, and other symptoms.
- Cervical spine injury: A traumatic brain injury can also cause damage to the cervical spine, which is the portion of the spine that runs through the neck. This can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and upper extremities.
- Poor posture: Individuals with a traumatic brain injury may find it difficult to maintain proper posture, which can lead to strain on the neck muscles and cause pain.
What are the warning signs of physical damage to the neck?
Physical damage to the neck can manifest in several warning signs, including:
- Pain: Pain is the most common warning sign of physical neck damage. It can be sharp or dull and may radiate to other parts of the body.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in the neck can make it difficult to move your head and neck comfortably.
- Swelling: Swelling in the neck can occur as a result of trauma, such as a sports injury or car accident.
- Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in the neck and upper extremities can indicate nerve damage.
- Weakness: Weakness in the neck and upper extremities can also indicate nerve damage or muscle strain.
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction (Dysautonomia)
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction (Dysautonomia) is a condition that occurs when the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary body functions, does not function properly. The ANS controls various body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, digestion, and control of body temperature.
Dysfunction in the ANS can cause a variety of symptoms, including dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, excessive sweating, and difficulty regulating body temperature. Dysautonomia can also impact the body’s ability to respond to stress and can cause fatigue, brain fog, and cognitive impairment.
There are several types of dysautonomia, and the causes can vary. Some cases of dysautonomia are associated with other medical conditions, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. In other cases, dysautonomia may occur after a viral infection or as a result of an autoimmune disorder.
Diagnosis of dysautonomia typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests, such as blood work and autonomic function testing. Treatment options for dysautonomia may include medication to manage symptoms, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy.
Understanding the Relationship Between Vision and Vestibular Issues
Vision and vestibular issues are closely related and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. It works in conjunction with the visual system to ensure that an individual can move through their environment safely and effectively.
Vision and vestibular issues can occur when there is damage or dysfunction in one or both systems. Common symptoms of these issues may include dizziness, vertigo (a spinning sensation), nausea, headaches, blurred vision, difficulty focusing, and sensitivity to light or sound.
There are several conditions that can cause vision and vestibular issues, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is a common condition that causes brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position.
- Vestibular Neuritis: Vestibular neuritis occurs when the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain, becomes inflamed. This can cause severe dizziness and vertigo.
- Concussion: A concussion can cause damage to the vestibular system, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty with balance.
- Migraine-Associated Vertigo: Some individuals may experience vestibular symptoms during a migraine headache, including vertigo, dizziness, and light sensitivity.
Treatment for vision and vestibular issues depends on the underlying cause of the symptoms. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, and lifestyle modifications.
