What You Need to Know About Post-Accident Neck Injuries in Oak Ridge TN

The neck is a particularly vulnerable part of the body. When a car is struck, the force of the impact pushes the head violently in one direction and then the opposite direction. Consequently, the movement of the head causes hyperextension of the soft tissues of the neck and the vertebrae, or bones, or the upper spine. After a car crash, it's important to visit a chiropractor for whiplash treatment near Oak Ridge TN. A doctor of chiropractic can conduct a physical examination, take X-rays, and provide a personalized treatment plan.

Identifying the Types of Neck Injuries in Oak Ridge TN

Whiplash is among the most common types of car accident injuries that a chiropractor will treat. Whiplash refers to a collection of symptoms caused by the hyperextension of the ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves of the neck. When the ligaments in the neck have sustained damage, the injury is referred to as a neck sprain. A neck strain occurs when the muscles of the neck have become overly stretched or torn. There are other types of neck injuries that can occur from a car accident, such as a herniated disc. In many cases, disc herniation occurs from the accumulated effects of wear and tear damage over the years. However, the blunt force trauma of a car crash can quickly cause a tear in the tough exterior of an intervertebral disc and force the inner material to bulge outward. A slipped disc can exert pressure on the nerves in the neck.

Recognizing the Symptoms

When you visit an office of advanced chiropractic, be sure to disclose all of your symptoms, even if they do not seem to be related to the crash. Car crashes can result in symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness, reduced range of motion, and a headache that may begin at the base of the skull. You might also experience muscle spasms in the neck and pain that extends down your arms to your hands. The pain along your arms may be accompanied by numbness and weakness, and you may have poor reflexes in your upper body.

Treating Neck Injuries

A doctor of chiropractic can help you recover from your car crash injuries. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, you may benefit from adjusting your exercise regimen and improving your diet. Additionally, the chiropractor may recommend ultrasound therapy or electrical stimulation.