The accident itself may have seemed minor. You exchanged insurance info, maybe even said, "I'm fine." Then, a day or a few days later, your neck stiffened up. Turning your head hurts. Headaches show up. You feel foggy, tired, or just off.

That's a very common story after a crash, and it's a good reason to get checked out.

What's going on?

Whiplash (doctors call it a cervical acceleration-deceleration injury) happens when your head and neck are snapped quickly in one direction and then rebound in the other. Even at lower speeds, that motion can strain the muscles, ligaments, and joints of your neck and upper back. Symptoms may include:

  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
  • Shoulder or upper-back pain
  • Dizziness, fogginess, or trouble concentrating
  • Tingling into the arms

Symptoms don't always appear right away, which is why an early exam matters.

How we help at Gilmore Chiropractic

After a careful exam, your plan may include:

  • Gentle chiropractic care to help restore neck motion
  • Functional neurology with Dr. Matthews when symptoms like dizziness, fogginess, balance issues, or concussion-type symptoms are present
  • Acupuncture with Dr. Funk
  • Massage therapy to help ease muscle tension and support recovery
  • Shockwave therapy when soft-tissue irritation may be involved
  • Soft tissue work, stretching, and rehab exercises
  • Vertebral decompression / cervical traction when appropriate

We also keep thorough, accurate records of your exam findings and progress, which is helpful for your insurance claim or if your attorney requests your records.

What to expect at your first visit

  1. Accident and symptom history: what happened and how you've felt since.
  2. A complete exam: orthopedic, neurological, and range-of-motion testing; imaging if needed.
  3. Clear documentation of findings.
  4. A care plan, with check-ins to track your progress.

Bring your claim number and auto insurance information if you have them.

Been in an accident? Don't wait to get checked

Even if you feel "mostly fine," an exam can give you peace of mind and a clear record.

Call us at 772-466-9575 or book online at gilmore-chiro.com (Schedule An Appointment). We're at 800 Virginia Ave, Suite 45, Fort Pierce.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 9–1 and 3–6 · Thursday: by appointment · Saturday & Sunday: closed

BOOK NOW

Go to the ER or call 911 after an accident if you have severe neck pain, numbness or weakness, loss of consciousness, confusion, severe headache, or vomiting.

This page is for general education and isn't a substitute for a personal exam or medical advice. Individual results vary.

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