When it comes to head and neck injuries, women tend to have a tougher time than men. Studies consistently show that the extent of injury, recovery time, and symptom severity are often worse for women who experience whiplash or concussion. But why is that?
A recent study might give us some answers. Whiplash and concussion symptoms often stem from nerves misfiring after being stretched during an impact. The study found that the affected part of the nerve is thinner in women than in men, making it more susceptible to damage. This difference means that women are more likely to experience intense symptoms and longer recovery periods following a neck injury.
But it’s not just about nerve structure. Women typically have less neck muscle mass compared to men—about 50%-60% less, on average. This means less natural protection for the neck’s soft tissues and bones during an accident. When a head injury occurs, weaker neck muscles can lead to more damage, compounding the recovery challenges for women.
What does this mean for female athletes (and everyone else)? It’s a mix of good and bad news. The bad news? We can’t change the thickness of our nerves. The good news? We can do something about neck strength. Strengthening your neck doesn’t mean you’ll end up looking like a bodybuilder. Simple isometric exercises can build strength without adding bulk. A stronger neck can help reduce the risk of severe injury and support quicker recovery.
Another key to minimizing damage is maintaining proper alignment in your upper cervical spine. This is an often-overlooked area, but it’s critical to overall neck health. When the neck is properly aligned, it’s better equipped to handle the forces of an accident or injury. Regular upper cervical chiropractic care ensures that your neck is structurally sound and functioning at its best.
If an injury does happen, don’t lose hope. Upper cervical chiropractic care can make a big difference in how quickly and fully you recover. As an upper cervical chiropractor, I specialize in treating neck injuries, including whiplash and concussions. The upper neck is highly susceptible to trauma—whether it’s from a car accident, a fall, or a sports injury—and it’s often where misalignments occur.
When someone comes to me with a neck injury, my first priority is to restore movement in the upper neck, where the damage is usually concentrated. Once proper movement is restored, the next step is strengthening the area to improve stability and prevent future issues.
If you’re experiencing lingering symptoms from whiplash or concussion, it’s a good idea to have your upper neck evaluated. Even a small misalignment can contribute to ongoing pain and slow recovery. Correcting the misalignment can help your body heal faster and reduce the severity of symptoms.
A healthy neck is crucial to staying active, strong, and injury-resistant. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking to prevent one, upper cervical chiropractic care can help you achieve and maintain optimal neck health. Come visit us at Upper Cervical Chiropractic Health Centers in Fort Myers. Give us a call at 239-243-8810 to set up your free consultation.
