Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden back-and-forth movement of the head, often from car accidents, sports collisions, or falls. It can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced mobility. At KIRO, our chiropractors focus on restoring proper motion, reducing inflammation, and guiding you through safe recovery so you can return to daily life without lingering pain.
Why does whiplash occur?
Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly forced forward and backward, straining the muscles, ligaments, discs, and joints of the cervical spine. This rapid motion often happens in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, but can also result from sports injuries, falls, or any impact that jerks the head. The sudden overstretching and recoil create inflammation and stiffness, which can trigger pain and reduced mobility.
What are the common symptoms of whiplash?
Common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and stiffness, headaches (often starting at the base of the skull), reduced range of motion, and tenderness in the shoulders or upper back. Some people may also experience dizziness, fatigue, jaw pain, or tingling and numbness in the arms. In more severe cases, symptoms can include blurred vision, ringing in the ears, or difficulty concentrating.
Who is most at risk for whiplash?
Whiplash most commonly affects people involved in rear-end car accidents, but it can also occur in athletes who play contact sports like football, hockey, or martial arts. Individuals with previous neck injuries, poor posture, or weaker neck muscles may be more vulnerable. Older adults are also at higher risk since their spines are less flexible and tissues heal more slowly.
How do KIRO doctors treat whiplash?
At KIRO, our doctors begin with a comprehensive exam to identify the severity of your whiplash and the specific tissues involved. In the early symptomatic phase, we typically recommend 2 visits per week to reduce pain and restore safe motion. Treatment includes precise chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine, gentle soft-tissue work, and mobility drills to calm inflammation and ease stiffness.
As you progress into the corrective phase, care usually shifts to once per week. We focus on rebuilding neck stability with strengthening exercises, postural retraining, and ergonomic coaching to prevent re-injury. After about three months, most patients transition into the preventive phase, where periodic care helps maintain motion, manage stress, and avoid flare-ups.
To track progress, we perform monthly Nervous System Scans and adjust your care plan as needed. Throughout your treatment, multiple doctors rotate in your care, giving you the benefit of diverse expertise and the highest level of clinical insight.
How long does treatment for whiplash take?
Most patients begin to feel relief from whiplash within 4–6 weeks of consistent care. The corrective phase often takes an additional 6–8 weeks to rebuild strength, posture, and stability in the neck. Altogether, about three months of care is typical for lasting results. Many patients choose to continue with periodic maintenance visits afterward to prevent flare-ups and support long-term spinal health.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for whiplash?
Chiropractic care for whiplash provides several benefits, including:
Faster pain relief and reduced stiffness
Improved neck mobility and posture
Calmer muscles and fewer spasms
Better focus and energy from reduced tension
A non-drug, non-surgical approach to healing
Long-term prevention of flare-ups through maintenance care
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Includes an Exam, Consultation, and Total-Spinal Adjustment.
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