Common Symptoms of Neck Injuries
Depending on the cause and severity, symptoms may include:
- Sharp or aching pain in the neck or shoulders
- Stiffness or difficulty turning the head
- Headaches or migraines triggered by tension
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or hands
- Muscle spasms or tightness in the neck and upper back
- Dizziness or reduced balance after impact
- Pain that worsens after sitting, driving, or working at a computer
Root Causes and Contributing Factors
Neck injuries may result from a single trauma or cumulative stress over time. Common causes include:
- Whiplash — sudden force from auto accidents or falls
- Sports injuries — contact sports, weightlifting, or repetitive overhead movement
- Poor posture — forward head position creating long-term strain
- Repetitive strain — desk work, phone use, or manual labor
- Degenerative changes — arthritis or disc degeneration making the neck more vulnerable
- Stress — clenching and tension in the neck and shoulders
How Neck Injuries Are Diagnosed
At Aligned Modern Health, we take a whole-body approach to identifying the true source of your injury. Evaluation may include:
- A physical exam to test range of motion, alignment, and joint function
- Neurological testing if numbness or weakness is present
- Imaging (X-ray or MRI) if disc, fracture, or severe injury is suspected
Our Treatment Approach
Healing a neck injury requires more than pain management. We focus on restoring alignment, mobility, and long-term resilience. Your care plan may include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: Gentle, precise corrections to realign vertebrae and reduce nerve pressure.
- Soft Tissue Therapy & Rehabilitation: Manual therapy and corrective exercises to release tight muscles and rebuild strength.
- Acupuncture: Eases pain, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate the nervous system after injury.
- Functional Medicine: Addresses systemic contributors such as inflammation, stress, or poor sleep that can delay healing.
- Lifestyle Coaching: Ergonomic recommendations and movement guidance to prevent reinjury.
Conditions Commonly Linked to Neck Injuries
Neck injuries are often associated with or mistaken for:
What to Expect From Care
Here’s what recovery looks like with us:
- Initial Visit – A provider reviews your history, symptoms, and performs a chiropractic exam.
- Diagnostics – Imaging or testing if needed to confirm the extent of the injury.
- Personalized Care Plan – Chiropractic, rehab, acupuncture, and functional medicine tailored to your needs.
- Ongoing Support – Regular visits to track progress, adapt exercises, and ensure long-term recovery.
Appointments are available in-person at our clinics, with virtual options for functional medicine and nutrition. We accept major insurance, and all services are FSA/HSA eligible.
Is a Neck Injury Affecting You?
Neck injuries don’t have to turn into lasting problems. With the right care, you can recover fully, restore mobility, and prevent chronic pain. Book a visit today and take the first step toward healing your neck injury and protecting your long-term health.