- Severe or worsening headache, confusion, repeated vomiting, or unusual drowsiness
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Chest pain, abdominal pain, or trouble breathing
- Loss of consciousness at any point, or changes in vision or speech
Common signs
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Less range of motion when turning or tilting the head
- Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
- Pain or tightness in the shoulders or upper back
- Tingling in the arms, fatigue, or dizziness
What happens in a whiplash injury
When a vehicle is struck, the body moves with the seat while the head lags behind and then snaps forward. That quick motion can strain the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the neck and upper back.
Symptoms are not always immediate. Some people feel fine at the scene and notice stiffness or soreness later that day or over the next few days.
How a chiropractic evaluation works
At Therapy & Injury, a Florida-licensed chiropractic physician takes a history of the accident and your symptoms, then examines posture, range of motion, and muscle and joint function, with orthopedic and neurological screening tests.
If your exam suggests you need imaging or a medical evaluation, we refer you to an independent medical provider. If chiropractic care is appropriate, we explain the plan in plain language before starting, which may include gentle adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, and guided exercise.
Florida PIP and the 14-day window
If the injury came from a car accident, Florida PIP generally requires that you receive initial care within 14 days of the crash for PIP benefits to apply. See our guide to the 14-day rule for details.
Related: Florida’s 14-day PIP rule · What to do after a car accident · Our chiropractic services
Questions
Can whiplash show up days after a car accident?
Yes. Some people notice whiplash symptoms hours or days after a collision rather than at the scene. If you were in a crash, a check-up within 14 days also keeps Florida PIP benefits available.
Can a chiropractor help with whiplash?
A chiropractic physician can evaluate the neck and upper back after a crash and, when appropriate, provide chiropractic care. Results vary from person to person. If you need imaging or a medical evaluation, we refer you to an independent medical provider.
Educational information only, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Care at Therapy & Injury is chiropractic care provided by Florida-licensed chiropractic physicians.