A complex joint like the neck is subjected to a wide range of stresses. You may have whiplash if you suddenly experience stiffness and chronic neck pain. An injury like this can last for a long time after an incident, which is why chiropractic therapy can be helpful in treating it.

What Is Whiplash?

A whiplash injury results from sudden and violent movement of the neck and head. Disks between spinal vertebrae, ligaments, muscles, and tissue in the neck can be injured by the extreme force. Whiplash is most commonly caused by auto collisions. 

The head is often forcefully thrown forward and back when a vehicle is struck. A similar injury can also occur in contact sports like football, as well as in cases of physical abuse, such as assault.

What Are the Symptoms?

Neck pain can range from mild and infrequent to severe and constant for many patients. It is common for neck pain to increase when moving the neck, and many people suffer from stiffness and limited range of motion. 

In addition to chronic fatigue and dizziness, tissue may feel tender to the touch. The stress of these side effects can result in blurry vision, poor sleep, and even emotional problems like depression.

What Are Some Treatment Options?

Whiplash is often treated with chiropractic therapy. Professionals in chiropractic care specialize in joints like the neck and are able to diagnose the damaged parts of the neck. Through a manual exam, they can identify issues like spinal misalignments and perform spinal adjustments to reposition vertebrae. 

As a result, nerves and muscles are relieved, which allows the neck joint to relax. Stretches and exercises are also part of chiropractic therapy to strengthen the injured joint. Chiropractors often create at-home treatment regimens that you can follow between visits to the office.

If chronic pain is an ongoing issue, contact the team at Back to Health Chiropractic. This Florence, KY, chiropractor treats a wide range of conditions, including whiplash, back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain. They create customized treatment plans for each patient, so call (859) 746-2222 to schedule an exam. Visit their website to learn more about the practice.