Whiplash Care in Milpitas
Whiplash can sneak up on you. Maybe it was a rear-end collision on I-680, a quick stop-and-go hit near Milpitas, or even a “minor” fender bender that didn’t seem like a big deal in the moment. Then a day or two later, your neck feels locked up, your head won’t stop pounding, or you feel a little off-balance, like your body is trying to catch up.
Whiplash happens when the head and neck snap forward and back quickly, irritating joints, muscles, and soft tissue. Even when the car appears fine, your body may be experiencing strain.
Why Symptoms May Show Up Later
Right after an accident, adrenaline can mask discomfort. You might walk away thinking you’re okay, only to wake up days later with stiffness, headaches, or tension spreading into your shoulders and upper back.
That delay is one reason whiplash gets ignored. People wait it out, push through work, and hope it fades. Sometimes it does; other times, the tightness and limited motion settle in and start affecting sleep, focus, and daily movement.
Whiplash Signs People Brush Off
Whiplash doesn’t always feel like sharp pain. It can also feel like “something’s not right,” especially when you turn your head, look down at a screen, or drive. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Neck pain, tightness, or reduced range of motion
- Headaches often starting at the base of the skull
- Shoulder tension or upper back soreness
- Dizziness, feeling foggy, or trouble concentrating
- Tingling, numbness, or radiating discomfort in the arms or hands
- Low back discomfort after the impact
What’s Going On in Your Neck
Whiplash may irritate spinal joints and strain muscles and ligaments. When those tissues are irritated, your body often responds with guarding; it tightens to protect itself. That can limit motion and create a “pull” feeling when you try to move normally.
If the neck and upper back aren’t moving well, other areas may begin to compensate. That’s when symptoms can spread, leading to tension headaches, shoulder irritation, or pain that comes and goes throughout the day.
How We Approach Your Care
Our care should match the person in front of us, not a one-size plan. We start by listening to your story, assessing movement, and evaluating how your neck, upper back, and surrounding joints are working together.
Depending on your needs, your plan may include gentle chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue work, targeted stretching or mobility exercises, and in-office therapies to ease tension and help your body move more comfortably again. The goal is simple: calm things down, restore motion, and help you return to your normal routines.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Milpitas
If you’ve recently been in a collision and symptoms are starting to build, don’t wait until it “gets bad enough.” Getting checked sooner can help you understand what’s happening and what steps make sense next.
If you’re dealing with insurance or an injury claim, our team is also experienced at keeping your visit organized so you’re not juggling everything on your own. Milpitas Spine Center is here to help you feel heard, get clarity, and move forward with a plan you can follow.
Schedule a Whiplash Evaluation Today
If you’re noticing neck stiffness, headaches, dizziness, or that lingering “something’s off” feeling after an accident, let’s take a look and figure out what your body needs. Contact us today.
