Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common things people deal with after a car accident, even a minor fender-bender. It's the strain that happens when your neck moves suddenly forward and back, and it doesn't always show up right away. Dr. Heaps takes a straightforward approach: a real exam, a look at what's actually going on, and a plan built around what he finds, not a one-size-fits-all script.

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a strain injury to the neck. It happens when the head is thrown quickly forward and then back, or side to side, which can stretch the muscles, ligaments, and joints in the cervical spine beyond their normal range. It's most commonly associated with rear-end car accidents, but it can happen in any sudden collision.

How It Happens in a Car Accident

In a collision, your body is held in place by the seatbelt while your head keeps moving from the force of the impact. That rapid back-and-forth motion is what strains the soft tissue in the neck, and it can happen even at lower speeds where there's little damage to the vehicle.

Common Whiplash Symptoms

Whiplash symptoms vary from person to person and can include neck stiffness, reduced range of motion, headaches, and soreness that spreads into the shoulders or upper back. Some people notice symptoms right away, while others don't feel them until a day or two later.

Dr. Heaps's Approach to Whiplash Care

Dr. Heaps believes care should start with understanding what's actually going on, rather than assumptions. His approach to whiplash begins with a history of the accident and a physical exam, then a care plan shaped around your specific findings.

What a Visit Involves

A first visit typically includes a review of how the accident happened, an exam, range-of-motion testing, and a conversation about what a care plan could look like. Every case is handled individually.

Whiplash Care With No Money Down

If your whiplash is related to a car accident, you may not need to pay anything upfront. Care can be billed through your claim, and Dr. Heaps' team will walk you through how that works before you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a strain injury that happens when the neck moves quickly forward and backward, most often from the sudden motion of a car accident.

What symptoms are associated with whiplash?

Common symptoms include neck stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion, though symptoms can vary quite a bit from person to person.

How soon do whiplash symptoms show up after a crash?

Symptoms can appear right away or take a day or two to show up, which is one reason it's worth getting checked out even if you feel okay at first.

What does whiplash care at Heaps of Relief involve?

Dr. Heaps starts with a history and exam, then builds a care approach based on what's found in your specific case.

Is whiplash care covered under my accident claim?

In many cases yes, and we can walk you through how billing works for your specific situation when you come in.