Whiplash & Auto Injury Care in Keller, TX
Whiplash is a significant injury caused by the rapid acceleration and deceleration of a collision. Because it is often ignored or improperly treated, it can lead to pain and dysfunction that lingers for years. At Performance Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Dennis James, certified in Brain and Whiplash Traumatology, uses gentle, precise chiropractic care with no twisting or turning to restore motion to injured joints and support healthy nerve function as early as possible.
What Is a Whiplash Injury?
The term "whiplash injury" describes trauma to both the bony structures and joints of the neck and the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, discs, and nerves. It is one of the most common injuries after an auto accident, and it can occur even in low-speed collisions with little visible damage to the vehicle.
Research supports restoring gentle, controlled motion to the cervical joints as soon as it is safe, since early movement generally leads to faster recovery than prolonged immobilization.
Common Whiplash Symptoms
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Shoulder pain
- Headaches or TMJ and jaw pain
- Dizziness
- Radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Back pain
- Visual disturbances
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Many of these symptoms have a delayed onset, appearing days after the crash.
Diagnosis and Gentle Treatment of Whiplash
It is important to have your cervical spine examined as soon as possible following an accident. Dr. James begins with a thorough consultation and examination, which may include physical and orthopedic testing, digital X-rays, and functional and neurological testing using our advanced diagnostic technology. If findings suggest a fracture, significant ligament instability, or concussion that requires medical management, we will refer you appropriately.
Care is built around restoring function, not just chasing pain. Your plan may include Zone Healing and gentle chiropractic adjustments, needle-less acupuncture, red and infrared light therapy to support tissue repair, and shockwave therapy for stubborn soft-tissue injuries. Learn more on our in-depth whiplash injury and neck pain pages.
Whiplash Injury FAQs
Can whiplash happen in a low-speed accident?
Yes. Studies involving live human volunteers have shown that collisions as low as 5 mph can strain the neck, even when the car shows little or no damage.
How long after an accident can whiplash symptoms appear?
Symptoms may appear within hours, but they are often delayed by 24 to 48 hours or longer. That is why an early evaluation is important even if you feel fine.
Is it better to rest or move after whiplash?
Research generally supports restoring gentle, controlled motion as soon as it is safe, rather than prolonged immobilization, after a proper examination rules out serious injury.
Will whiplash treatment involve twisting my neck?
No. Dr. James uses precise, low-force techniques with no twisting or turning of the spine, which is especially important for an injured neck.
What happens if whiplash goes untreated?
Untreated whiplash can lead to scar tissue formation, lingering joint restriction, chronic neck pain, headaches, and early degeneration of the cervical joints.
Is Dr. James specially trained in whiplash injuries?
Yes. Dr. James is certified in Brain and Whiplash Traumatology, with advanced training in injury biomechanics and the case management of whiplash-related disorders.
Get Your Neck Checked After an Accident
You don't have to keep living with whiplash pain. Call Performance Chiropractic Clinic at (817) 337-3636 to schedule your consultation and examination with Dr. James.