Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment in West Kendall
Ollet Chiropractic provides cervical sprain and strain treatment in West Kendall for patients experiencing neck pain, stiffness, muscle tension, headaches and limited movement. In addition, we evaluate cervical injuries related to car accidents, sports injuries, falls and other sudden impacts.
Personalized Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment
The cervical spine refers to the neck region of the spine. A cervical sprain affects the ligaments that support the neck. In contrast, a cervical strain affects muscles or tendons.
Although the injured tissues are different, both conditions may cause pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion. Additionally, symptoms may extend into the shoulders or upper back.
Cervical injuries can develop after a car accident, sports injury, fall or sudden movement. However, symptoms do not always appear immediately. Therefore, patients should pay attention to discomfort that develops during the hours or days after an injury.
First, we evaluate your symptoms and movement. Then, we can recommend an individualized treatment plan when chiropractic care is appropriate.
What Causes Cervical Sprains and Strains?
Neck soft-tissue injuries can happen in several ways. Nevertheless, sudden force or excessive stretching is a common factor.
Car Accidents
During a collision, the head may move rapidly forward and backward. As a result, the muscles and ligaments of the neck may become strained or sprained.
Sports Injuries
Sudden impacts, falls or rapid changes in direction may place stress on cervical soft tissues. Therefore, athletes can develop pain or stiffness after an injury.
Falls
A fall can suddenly move the neck beyond its normal range. Consequently, muscles, tendons or ligaments may become irritated.
Sudden Movements
In some cases, a quick or awkward movement can strain the neck. Additionally, existing muscle tension may make the area more sensitive.
Cervical Sprain vs. Cervical Strain
These terms are often used together. However, they describe injuries to different types of soft tissue.
Cervical Sprain
A cervical sprain affects the ligaments that help stabilize the neck. Specifically, these ligaments may become overstretched or injured during sudden movement.
As a result, a patient may experience stiffness, tenderness and pain during neck movement.
Cervical Strain
A cervical strain affects the muscles or tendons of the neck. For example, sudden impact or overextension can irritate these tissues.
Consequently, symptoms may include muscle soreness, spasms, tightness and limited motion.
Cervical Sprain and Strain After a Car Accident
Motor vehicle accidents are a common cause of cervical sprains and strains. During a collision, rapid movement of the head can place stress on muscles, tendons and ligaments in the neck.
This mechanism is commonly associated with whiplash. However, symptoms can vary considerably between patients. Some people notice discomfort immediately, while others develop neck pain or stiffness later.
Therefore, if symptoms appear after a collision, an evaluation can help identify which areas may have been affected. Afterward, appropriate treatment options can be discussed.
How Cervical Sprains and Strains Differ From Disc Injuries
Cervical sprains and strains primarily affect muscles, tendons and ligaments. In contrast, a disc injury affects one of the spinal discs between the cervical vertebrae.
Although these injuries are different, their symptoms can sometimes overlap. For example, both conditions may cause neck pain and limited movement.
However, numbness, tingling or pain that travels into the arm may suggest nerve irritation or another spinal condition. Therefore, those symptoms may require additional evaluation.
If disc-related symptoms are suspected, learn more about our disc herniation chiropractic care .
Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings and recovery goals. Therefore, not every patient receives the same combination of services.
Chiropractic Care
When appropriate, chiropractic techniques may be used to address joint mobility and musculoskeletal discomfort.
Soft-Tissue Therapy
Soft-tissue techniques may help address muscle tension and tenderness. In addition, they may support more comfortable movement.
Stretching Exercises
Gentle stretching may be included when appropriate. Consequently, patients can gradually work toward improving mobility.
Strengthening Exercises
As symptoms improve, strengthening may help support the neck and surrounding muscles during recovery.
Posture Guidance
Poor positioning can aggravate cervical discomfort. Therefore, posture recommendations may be included as part of care.
Personalized Rehabilitation
Finally, rehabilitation recommendations may be adjusted as the patient’s symptoms and movement improve.
What to Expect During Your Cervical Injury Evaluation
We keep the process straightforward. Therefore, you can understand the next steps before treatment begins.
Discuss Your Injury
First, we review how the injury occurred and when your symptoms began.
Evaluate Your Neck
Next, we assess movement, discomfort and other relevant findings.
Review the Findings
Afterward, we explain the findings and discuss appropriate care options.
Begin Personalized Care
Finally, treatment can begin when chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition.
Insurance for Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment
Ollet Chiropractic accepts many health insurance plans. In addition, we work with applicable auto accident claims and eligible workers’ compensation cases administered through Sedgwick. However, coverage depends on the individual plan or claim.
Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment FAQs
Below are answers to common questions about cervical soft tissue injuries and treatment.
What is a cervical sprain?
A cervical sprain involves injury to the ligaments that support the neck. As a result, patients may experience pain, stiffness or restricted movement.
What is a cervical strain?
A cervical strain involves the muscles or tendons of the neck. Consequently, symptoms may include soreness, tightness, spasms or discomfort with movement.
Is whiplash a cervical sprain or strain?
Whiplash can involve injuries to multiple soft tissues in the neck. Therefore, cervical sprains and strains may be associated with whiplash after a sudden acceleration-deceleration injury.
Can symptoms appear days after a car accident?
Yes. Some patients develop pain or stiffness later rather than immediately after a collision. Therefore, new or persistent symptoms after an accident should be evaluated.
How is a cervical sprain or strain treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s symptoms. For example, care may include chiropractic techniques, soft-tissue therapy, stretching, strengthening or rehabilitation when appropriate.
How long does a cervical sprain or strain take to heal?
Recovery time varies according to the severity of the injury and other individual factors. Therefore, an evaluation is necessary before estimating the appropriate treatment or recovery timeline.
When should neck pain receive urgent medical attention?
Severe trauma, significant weakness, loss of coordination, severe headache, difficulty breathing or other concerning neurological symptoms may require urgent medical evaluation. In those cases, routine chiropractic treatment should not delay appropriate emergency care.
How do I schedule cervical sprain and strain treatment in West Kendall?
First, call Ollet Chiropractic at (786) 536-5081. Alternatively, use our online booking portal to request an appointment.
Schedule Cervical Sprain and Strain Treatment in West Kendall
If neck pain, stiffness or limited movement is affecting your daily activities after an injury, schedule an evaluation with Ollet Chiropractic. Then, our team can assess your symptoms and discuss the appropriate next step.