Being in a car accident can really do a number on your neck. Whiplash and other injuries can leave you with debilitating pain for weeks or even months afterward. If you’re suffering from neck pain after an auto accident, don’t wait to seek treatment. Read on for tips from our team at Wellness Chiropractic Center in Watertown on finding relief for your neck pain.
See a Chiropractor for Adjustments
One of the best options for neck pain treatment after an auto accident is to visit a chiropractor near you. A chiropractor can assess your whiplash and other accident-related injuries. They can use manipulations and adjustments to improve mobility and reduce nerve irritation in the vertebrae of your neck. This provides natural pain relief without drugs or surgery. Make an appointment with a chiropractor as soon as possible after your accident for the best results.
Try Gentle Stretches and Exercises
Your chiropractor can recommend specific stretches and exercises to aid in the healing of your neck. Simple range-of-motion exercises can help relieve stiffness, but avoid sudden, harsh neck movements, which could worsen the injury. Start with gentle stretches like shoulder shrugs, chin tucks, and side-to-side head turns. Over time, targeted exercises will help strengthen your neck muscles.
Use Cold and Heat Therapy
Alternating cold and heat therapy can relieve neck pain and relax muscles. Try applying an ice pack to the injured area for 15 minutes to reduce inflammation. Follow up with 15 minutes of gentle heat from a heating pad or hot water bottle. Repeat this cycle several times a day. The combination of cold reducing swelling and heat increasing circulation promotes healing.
Maintain Proper Posture
Slouching puts strain on your neck muscles and can intensify pain. Be mindful of keeping your head balanced over your shoulders whenever you are sitting or standing. Avoid hunching over electronic devices or work. Take frequent breaks from tasks that require a forward head tilt. Maintaining proper posture takes pressure off your neck as it recovers from the auto accident injury.
Neck Pain Treatment Is Available
Recovering from whiplash and neck injuries after a car accident takes time and care. Our chiropractor at Wellness Chiropractic Center provides customized neck pain treatment to residents of Watertown, WI, and the surrounding communities. We use proven chiropractic techniques to help accident victims heal. Call today to schedule an evaluation for your neck pain.