The reduction in neck mobility exposes the capsules, fibrous bags around the joints, of the facet joints to traumatic stretching events. Turning the neck suddenly without conscious thought can push the joints to the limits of their movements, injuring the fibres of the capsular ligamentous tissues. This produces joint pain and scarring with increased capsular tightness as the healing process proceeds, making the joints tighter and less willing again to tolerate stresses. As the tight joints can