FB_How to treat whiplash (1)

How to treat whiplash for cyclists

Have you or your cycling mates ever experienced cycle whiplash?

Recovering from a cycling accident can be a lengthy process. The duration depends on the type of injury, your age and whether you’ve had past accidents. For instance, a fractured rib can take up to 12 weeks to heal. But what about injuries that aren’t as obvious, like whiplash from a fall?

If your fall involved a major neck whiplash—especially if your helmet was damaged—it might be tempting to rest briefly and get back to training. However, many cyclists find they struggle to sit comfortably on their bike or return to their usual training program, even weeks after the accident.

What is Cycle Whiplash?

When a cyclist experiences significant neck whiplash from an accident, the muscles around the neck can strain and spasm as they attempt to protect the area. These symptoms often stem from a lack of alignment caused by the injury.

Common symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Shoulder pain
  • Muscle spasms
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Trouble concentrating at work
  • Numbness in the arms or hands

Instead of waiting for the pain to disappear, it’s crucial to assess your posture, spine and muscles to ensure proper alignment. After all, your body is worth more than your bike.

How to Address Whiplash Symptoms

We spoke with Dr Adele Lorigan, a chiropractor at Kurilpa Chiropractic & Sports Massage, who shared valuable insights into treating cycle whiplash. According to Dr Lorigan, recovery starts with understanding the mechanism of the injury. This includes a detailed history of the accident, identifying contributing factors and, if necessary, conducting scans or x-rays to guide treatment.

A comprehensive treatment plan may involve:

  • Regular chiropractic adjustments to correct alignment
  • Sports massage to release muscle tension
  • Trigger point therapy to alleviate pain and improve mobility

These therapies aim to support the body’s natural healing process and restore proper function over time.

Recommendations for Cyclists

In addition to professional treatment, cyclists can take steps at home to aid recovery:

1. Apply Heat

Use heat packs or a wheat bag on the shoulders and neck to relax muscles.

2. Epsom Salt Baths

Take warm baths with Epsom salts three times a week to reduce tension.

3. Trigger Point Release

Perform gentle trigger point release techniques on your neck.

4. Ergonomic Workspaces

Ensure your desk and chair are set up correctly to prevent additional strain.

5. Gentle Neck Movements

Practice gentle flexion, extension, rotation and lateral flexion—only if it doesn’t cause pain.

6. Take Regular Breaks

Avoid prolonged desk work by taking breaks every hour to stretch and move.

Legal Support as Part of Your Recovery

Healing after a cycling accident isn’t just about addressing physical injuries. If your accident involved another party, seeking legal advice can help you recover financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other related costs.

At Cycle Law, we understand the unique challenges cyclists face on the road. Our team is dedicated to helping cyclists navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, contact Cycle Law for expert legal advice. We’re here to help you focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.