Home / Conditions We Treat in Lake Oswego / Whiplash Chiropractor in Lake Oswego
Whiplash is a soft tissue injury of the neck that is common after a car accident, and it often does not show up right away. At Form & Function Chiropractic, Dr. Jeff Devine evaluates the neck, upper back and the rest of the spine after a collision. Read how whiplash and car accident care works in Lake Oswego and what to do next.
Why symptoms can be delayed
Symptoms of whiplash often appear 24 to 72 hours after a collision, and even low-speed impacts can cause them. It is common to feel fine at the scene and sore the next morning.
Common symptoms
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Tightness in the shoulders and upper back
- Dizziness
- Tingling in the arms
- Trouble sleeping
What the evaluation covers
Your first visit includes a discussion of the accident, a physical exam of the neck and spine, and range-of-motion testing. We also check the mid and low back, since they are often strained too. Imaging is used when appropriate, and patients who need a medical workup are referred.
How recovery usually progresses
Early care aims to calm irritation and restore motion with gentle adjustments chosen from your exam findings. Later care focuses on rebuilding strength and stability so the neck is more resilient. Recovery often fluctuates, with good days and sore days, and we adjust the plan as needed. Our injury care process walks through this in five steps: assess, adjust, activate, assist and advance. Supportive options include laser therapy and rehab.
Insurance and claims
Oregon PIP generally covers accident-related chiropractic care regardless of who was at fault, and our office helps with claim documentation and verifies coverage. Coverage details depend on your policy, so confirm them with your insurer. See our car accident chiropractor page for more.
Gentle things to do while you recover
Move your neck gently within a comfortable range, avoid long periods in one position, and use supportive pillows for sleep. Heat or cold can ease soreness for some people. Avoid heavy lifting and activities that provoke pain until you have been examined.
What your first visit looks like
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your history, when your neck and back symptoms began, what makes it better or worse, and what you want to get back to doing. Dr. Devine then examines you, explains what he finds in plain language, and recommends a plan before you leave. X-rays are used only when they are clinically warranted. Adjustments can use Diversified, Activator, Drop Table, Torque Release or SOT techniques, so you can choose a gentler approach if you prefer. If you were in an accident, bring any claim information you have.
When to get medical care first
Go to the emergency room after an accident if you lost consciousness, have severe neck or head pain, spreading weakness or numbness, confusion, or vomiting. Get medically cleared before starting chiropractic care.
Common questions
How soon after an accident should I be seen?
As soon as you notice symptoms, and ideally within the first few days. Early evaluation helps document the injury.
Does fault matter for coverage?
Oregon PIP generally covers accident-related care regardless of fault. Verify details with your insurer.
Will I need X-rays?
Only if the history or exam warrants them. We do not take them routinely.
Why patients choose Dr. Devine
Dr. Jeff Devine has practiced for more than 25 years and trained at Palmer West Chiropractic College. He uses a range of techniques, including Diversified, Activator, Drop Table, Torque Release and SOT, so care can be gentle or more traditional depending on your comfort. Co-owner Jodi Black offers nutrition coaching for patients who want support beyond the adjustment table. Learn more about Dr. Devine, or see our new patient information.
Related care and nearby areas
Related pages: car accident care, neck pain, headaches and low back pain. Read more on the main clinic site: why car accident pain can show up late and how PIP insurance works after an Oregon car accident. Ask about the new patient special, and see the clinic FAQ. We welcome patients from Tigard, West Linn, Tualatin, Hillsdale and Southwest Portland and across Lake Oswego. See all services and conditions.
Form & Function Chiropractic
3 Monroe Pkwy, Suite G, Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Phone: (503) 495-3454
Mon and Wed 9 AM to 7 PM, Tue and Thu 7 AM to 3 PM, Fri 8 AM to noon
This page is for general information only and is not medical advice. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Talk with a qualified health professional about your own situation, and seek emergency care for severe or sudden symptoms.