Whiplash can cause neck pain, headaches, stiffness, dizziness, and shoulder or upper-back discomfort. These symptoms often appear after motor vehicle collisions, sudden impacts, or rapid head movement. Because these injuries can affect muscles, ligaments, joints, and nerves, early care can make a meaningful difference in recovery.
At Triada Health Ottawa, our chiropractors provide evidence-informed treatment that helps reduce pain, restore mobility, and support your body’s healing process. We also guide you through the insurance and treatment process so you feel supported every step of the way.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs when the head and neck move quickly back and forth, stretching soft tissues beyond their normal range. According to the Mayo Clinic, whiplash can cause symptoms that last days to weeks, and sometimes longer when not addressed early.
Symptoms may include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Headaches
- Reduced range of motion
- Upper-back or shoulder pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Jaw tension or TMJ discomfort
- Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Whiplash symptoms may not appear immediately. It’s common to feel worse in the days after an accident, which is why early assessment is encouraged.
How Chiropractic Helps Whiplash & MVA Injuries
Chiropractic treatment focuses on restoring healthy movement in the neck, upper back, and shoulders. When these areas move better, tissues receive better circulation, inflammation can decrease, and mobility often improves.
Your chiropractor may use:
- Joint mobilizations
- Soft-tissue release for tight muscles
- Stretching and guided movement
- Exercises to support stability
- Posture and ergonomic strategies
- Jaw/neck techniques if TMJ is involved
The Cleveland Clinic notes that restoring movement, improving posture, and gradually increasing activity are key parts of whiplash recovery.
What to Expect After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Many people feel overwhelmed after an accident. We help simplify the process by:
- Completing a thorough assessment
- Identifying which tissues were affected
- Providing appropriate treatment
- Communicating clearly about your recovery timeline
- Offering home strategies to ease discomfort
- Working with other providers when needed (physio, massage, acupuncture)
You can also explore related services for enhanced recovery:
Common Whiplash Patterns We Treat
Neck Pain & Loss of Motion
Whiplash frequently limits how far you can turn or bend your neck.
Headaches or Migraines
Many people develop headaches due to joint irritation or muscle tension.
TMJ or Jaw Pain
Impact or bracing during a collision can create jaw tension or clicking.
Upper-Back or Shoulder Strain
The muscles supporting your neck can tighten significantly after impact.
Dizziness, Lightheadedness, and Vertigo
This can occur due to neck strain or changes in movement patterns.
Meet Our Chiropractors
| Chiropractor | Whiplash / MVA Focus Areas | Key Techniques & Interests | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Courteney Werner | Headaches • TMJ involvement • Posture changes • Neck/upper-back stiffness • Activity-related tension | Vertigo & Vestivular Rehabilitation, Activator Method, CATS, Graston®, concussion management, orthotics & gait scan | Meet Dr. Werner |
| Dr. Bell | Neck and upper-back mechanics • Rib movement • Impact-related strain • Persistent stiffness • Athletes and Youth sports injuries | Diversified, Thompson, Activator, rib and spine mobility | Meet Dr. Bell |
| Dr. Jessie Hsieh | Soft-tissue tension • Posture imbalance • Early-stage recovery • Mobility support | Cervical care, soft-tissue techniques, mobility-based treatment | Meet Dr. Hsieh |
Book Chiropractic Care for Whiplash or MVA Recovery
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📞 613-695-1213
📧 admin@triadahealthottawa.com
📍 Learn more about our team and location on our Our Clinic page.