Even a “minor” crash can leave you sore, stiff, and worried. In Kamloops, we often see neck pain, headaches, thoracic (mid-back) pain, and low back pain after MVAs. Sleep and stress can also flare. Here’s how massage therapy—done gently and step-by-step—can help you feel steadier day by day.What happens after an MVA (and why you feel sore):
Your body often braces during and after a crash. Muscles can stay “on guard,” which feels tight and painful.
Neck and upper-back strain (whiplash-associated disorders) are common. Thoracic and low back tissues can also get irritated from seatbelts, twisting, or impact.
Stress, poor sleep, and worry can turn the volume up on pain.
How an RMT session helps (what we actually do):
Gentle, comfortable pressure to neck, thoracic, and low back areas—within your comfort.
Education to help understand the process. Understanding your symptoms lowers threat and helps pain settle.
Simple home plan. A few movements and pacing tips you can repeat daily.
Team approach. We can coordinate with your doctor or physio if needed.
3 safe steps you can start this week (2–5 minutes):
Easy motion (neck, thoracic, low back) — daily
Neck turns: 5 each way (easy range)
Shoulder rolls: 10 back
Thoracic open-book: lying on your side, rotate top arm/back open and close ×5/side
Pelvic tilts (supine or seated): gentle rock forward/back ×10
Breathing for calm (1–2 minutes)
Inhale through the nose 4s → quiet exhale 6–8s × 5 breaths
Option: hands around lower ribs to feel them widen on inhale, soften on exhale
Light strength, little and often (3 minutes)
Band pull-apart ×12 (upper-back)
Wall slide ×8 (shoulder/thoracic)
Hip hinge to box ×8 (butt to a chair/box, pain-free range)
Supported row (light weight or backpack) ×10/side
Tip: stop before sharp pain; “some discomfort” that eases after is okay.
When to book with an RMT:
Pain lasts beyond a few days or limits work, driving, or sleep
Headaches or jaw tension are increasing
You’re unsure what’s safe and want a simple plan
When to seek urgent care (red flags):
Severe/worsening neck or back pain with fever, limb weakness, leg giving-way, or new numbness/tingling that spreads into arms or legs
Saddle anesthesia (numbness in the inner thighs/groin), or new bladder/bowel changes
Persistent dizziness, fainting, confusion, or a severe headache after impact