Healing Your Neck After Whiplash in Central California
You may have heard of the term “whiplash” if you’ve been involved in a car accident or sports injury. You should see a doctor immediately if you have experienced a whiplash injury in order to prevent further complications.
A Dignity Health Central California orthopedic doctor can diagnose your whiplash symptoms with expertise and humankindness. Find a Doctor today for healing and whiplash treatment in Central California.
Help for Whiplash Symptoms at Dignity Health Central California
A type of neck sprain, whiplash occurs when your neck ligament stretches farther than it should naturally. After an accident or injury, a Dignity Health Central California doctor may diagnose you with this condition if you have whiplash symptoms, including headaches, neck stiffness, or muscle spasms in your neck or shoulders.
Your doctor also may examine you for signs of a more serious condition, such as spinal nerve damage. Tell your doctor if your arms and hands become numb, tingle, or feel weak.
Ease Your Pain with Whiplash Treatments
Treatment for your whiplash typically involves rest and ice, along with anti-inflammatory medicines. A soft neck collar that supports your head can help relieve pressure and promote healing.
Physical therapy and range-of-motion exercises can help improve your neck move with discomfort and promote healing. Your doctor may also prescribe muscle relaxants for more severe cases.
You can protect your neck and help prevent whiplash during a car accident by:
- Putting your seat upright.
- Keeping your head close to the head restraint.
- Adjusting the height of the head restraint so that it is level or above the top of your head.
To relieve your whiplash symptoms, meet with a Dignity Health orthopedic doctor and begin the healing process with dignity, care, and respect.
Dignity Health Central California provides quality orthopedic services for a wide range of orthopedic conditions, including whiplash, in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.