If you’ve ever been in a car collision, you’re probably familiar with the soreness and muscle aches caused by the impact. The necks of drivers and passengers may jerk forward and snap back in a sudden crash. Neck pain is a common condition that leaves many feeling desperate for relief and treatment. This guide will help you understand what causes whiplash and how you can treat it. 

What Causes It?

A sharp, forceful movement of the neck causes whiplash. It occurs when your neck is thrown back and forth in an aggressive manner. It often happens in automotive accidents, but other kinds of traumas may also cause it, including physical assaults and contact sports. Sudden movement that stretches or tears neck muscles causes whiplash. 

How Do I Know If I Have It?

A chiropractic care professional can diagnose whiplash or neck strain. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. For some patients, the pain subsides in a few weeks. Others who sustain long-lasting injury require more extensive medical attention. A physician or chiropractor will test the range of motion in your neck and determine the source of pain. They may use imaging technologies to pinpoint tears and tissue injuries. 

How Is It Treated?

If your neck strain is minor to moderate, a chiropractor may recommend over-the-counter pain medication, rest, and the application of heat and ice packs to the injured area. If the pain doesn’t subside, a medical professional may recommend a muscle relaxant or an injection of lidocaine. Exercise and physical therapy may also be prescribed to speed recovery from neck pain.

If you have sustained a neck injury, trust the professionals at Midway Pointe Chiropractic in Lorain County, OH. From massage therapy to rehabilitation and spinal adjustments, they’ll help your body heal from pain and injury. To make an appointment, call (440) 324-2040, or visit them online for information about the history of this chiropractic care center.