Whiplash Treatment in Culver City
Whiplash is a neck injury resulting from a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, commonly occurring during rear-end car accidents. This rapid motion can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and nerves in the neck, leading to pain and discomfort. In Culver City and Hawthorne, our chiropractic clinics specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries to help patients recover and regain mobility.
- Causes: car accidents, falls, sports impacts
- Services: chiropractic adjustments, soft‑tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises
- Approach: patient‑centered, holistic, non‑surgical
Call (310) 800‑1320 to book your evaluation.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash, medically known as cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) syndrome, occurs when the neck is abruptly forced backward and then forward. This motion can injure the cervical spine, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. While car accidents are the most common cause, whiplash can also result from sports injuries, falls, or physical assaults. Symptoms may not appear immediately, making early evaluation crucial for effective treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
Whiplash symptoms can vary in severity and may not appear immediately after an accident. Some individuals notice symptoms within hours, while others experience delayed onset. Typical symptoms include:
- Persistent neck pain and stiffness
- Pain that worsens with neck movement
- Loss of range of motion in the neck
- Headaches, especially starting at the base of the skull
- Shoulder and upper back tenderness
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
- Dizziness or light-headedness
If untreated, these symptoms can persist or evolve into chronic issues.
Causes of Auto Accident Injury / Whiplash
Whiplash most often results from rear-end car collisions, but it’s not limited to high-speed impacts. Even low-speed crashes can transfer enough force to strain soft tissues in the neck.
Common causes include:
- Rear-end vehicle collisions (most frequent cause)
- Side-impact or multi-vehicle accidents
- Sports injuries involving sudden stops or tackles (e.g., football, soccer, martial arts)
- Slips, falls, or accidental trauma that forces the neck into rapid motion
- Physical assaults or being shaken forcefully
- Amusement park rides with rapid acceleration/deceleration
- Headrests positioned too low, failing to protect the neck during a crash
These events cause the head to snap backward and forward rapidly, injuring cervical joints, muscles, ligaments, discs, and nerves. Misaligned spinal structures and strained connective tissues often remain undiagnosed without proper evaluation.
Long-Term Complications of Untreated Whiplash
If left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic issues such as:
- Persistent neck pain and stiffness
- Degenerative disc disease
- Osteoarthritis in the cervical spine
- Chronic headaches
- Reduced mobility and quality of life
Early intervention is key to preventing these long-term complications.
Chiropractic Treatment for Whiplash
Our chiropractic approach to whiplash includes:
- Spinal Manipulation: Realigning the cervical spine to restore mobility and alleviate pain.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Reducing muscle tension and promoting healing through targeted massage techniques.
- Rehabilitative Exercises: Strengthening neck muscles and improving range of motion.
- Lifestyle Advice: Guidance on posture, ergonomics, and activities to support recovery.
These non-invasive treatments aim to address the root cause of pain and facilitate a full recovery.
Insurance Coverage for Whiplash Treatment
Many insurance plans cover chiropractic care for whiplash injuries. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits. Our administrative staff can also assist with insurance inquiries and claims processing.
How Active Body Chiropractic Culver City Can Help in Culver City and Hawthorne
At Active Body Chiropractic Culver City, our experienced chiropractors are dedicated to providing personalized care for whiplash injuries. We utilize evidence-based techniques to alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent future complications. Serving the communities of Culver City, Hawthorne, and surrounding areas, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
You can book your appointment using the scheduling tool below or by calling us at (310) 800-1320.
Frequently asked questions
Do chiropractors in Culver City and Hawthorne treat whiplash?
Yes, our chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries using non-invasive, effective methods.
How long does it take for whiplash to heal?
Recovery time varies; some patients feel better within weeks, while others may take several months. Early treatment can expedite healing.
What is the best treatment for whiplash?
A combination of chiropractic care, physical therapy, and specific exercises is often most effective in treating whiplash.
Can whiplash heal without treatment?
While mild cases may improve over time, professional treatment ensures proper healing and reduces the risk of chronic issues.
Is it normal to have delayed symptoms after a car accident?
Yes, whiplash symptoms can appear hours or even days after the incident. It’s important to seek evaluation if symptoms develop.
Does medical insurance cover whiplash treatment?
Many insurance plans do cover chiropractic treatment for whiplash. Please consult with your provider and our office for details.
