- Sudden acceleration in the opposite direction: If you are running forward, for example, and suddenly stop or slow down, your body may continue moving forward due to inertia. This can cause a jolt or jerk backwards.
- External force: If someone or something pushes you backwards suddenly, you may experience a jerk backwards. For instance, if you trip over a curb and fall backwards, your body will quickly come to a stop and you may feel a jerk or jolt.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as cervical vertigo, can also cause sudden jerking movements of the head and neck, which may feel like a jerk backwards.