Whiplash - Case Profile

Profile
A 60-year-old female with mild preexisting osteoarthritis in the cervical spine, suffering from MVA related whiplash symptoms, was referred for NMT by her chiropractor. At the time of her first visit, she was considering taking an early retirement from her job as a dental assistant due to chronic pain in her upper shoulders and neck. Positional forward posture when she worked exacerbated her daily pain levels. Postural assessment indicated forward head posture, neck weakness and medially rotated shoulders.

Treatment
Balance needed to be restored between the weak anterior neck and tight posterior postural and pectoral muscles. NMT techniques focused upon lengthening subscapularis, serratus anterior, pectoralis major/minor and SCM. Trigger point activity was reduced in the trapezius, scalenes, longus capitis and colli. Recommendations were provided for increasing intrinsic neck strength and improving work posture.

Result
Client improved dramatically by combining NMT with chiropractic treatment. After three months, her chronic pain abated and she continues to work full-time. She now utilizes NMT as needed.