When you stiffen up, the shock will travel through your whole body, into the seat ect. NONE of the kinetic energy is dispersed. But, like you said, when you are staring down a $50,000 car its kind of hard to not stiffen up. You don't want to be all limp either, because hyperextension can occur and be equally if not more damaging to ligaments and connective tissues and joints.

Keep an eye out on your soreness. I have some low back issues from when I was about 20, and I get shooting pains down my back into my legs, knees and ankles. I haven't had to go to a chiropractor in about a year or so, and I'd recommend if you do go, don't go everyday. If it starts to feel like the joint pain is subsiding but you are a little sore, go see a massage therapist. Tell them exactly whats going on, and they'll work you over.

You're insurance might even pay for it. It did for me when I had a whole lot of problems from a little accident I had. I had dislocated ribs, collarbone etc, and I couldn't swallow or turn my head to the right. It was a pulled muscle that ran from my low back up into my neck. 2 sessions and it felt better.

(This comment was modified on Apr 20, 2006 10:57 PM)

Wow that is terrible to hear. I'm very sorry, but the good thing is that you are here right now. We wish you the BEST recovery!

Poor you kiepay i hope you feel better soon

Hope you get better soon - sounds like that was a pretty bad hit! Sorry.

Gah!

I'm so sorry!

Hope you are back to kicking your children very soon!

Sorry to hear about your wreck and I am glad you are ok. Massage therapyWorks wonders.
Good luck, Hon.