By Dr. Lori Jokinen, DC – Chiropractic & Auto Injury Care in Woodbury, MN

After a car accident, many people begin searching for a trusted chiropractor near Woodbury, MN to help relieve their pain and prevent long-term complications. One of the most common injuries I see in my clinic is whiplash.

Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly and forcefully thrown forward and backward—most often during rear-end collisions. While some people feel pain immediately, others may feel “fine” at first due to a surge of adrenaline… only to experience worsening symptoms days later.

This delayed onset is extremely common and often catches patients off guard.

---

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury to the neck involving muscles, ligaments, joints, and connective tissues. In more severe cases, it can also involve disc injury or fractures—which is why evaluation after an accident is always important.

According to the Mayo Clinic, common whiplash symptoms include:
👉 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whiplash/symptoms-causes/syc-20378921

Common Whiplash Symptoms:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Upper or lower back pain
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Jaw pain (TMJ discomfort)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Balance issues
• Reduced range of motion

If you’ve been in an accident—even weeks ago—and are noticing these symptoms, your body may still be healing improperly.

---

Why Early Treatment Matters

Once fractures or serious injuries are ruled out, the soft tissue damage must be addressed. Without proper care, scar tissue (called adhesions) can form in the muscles and ligaments. This can lead to:

• Chronic neck pain
• Ongoing stiffness
• Headaches
• Decreased mobility
• Long-term dysfunction

That’s why early, conservative treatment is key.

---

How I Treat Whiplash at Functional Health Unlimited

One of the most effective therapies for whiplash recovery is the Graston Technique®, an evidence-based soft tissue therapy.

Graston Technique helps:

• Break down scar tissue and adhesions
• Improve blood flow to injured tissue
• Restore normal movement
• Reduce pain and inflammation

You can learn more about Graston from Cleveland Clinic:
👉 https://health.clevelandclinic.org/graston-technique/

When combined with chiropractic adjustments, Graston Technique often helps patients return to their normal activities more quickly and safely.

---

Additional Therapies We Use for Whiplash Recovery

At Functional Health Unlimited in Woodbury, MN, I offer a comprehensive approach to auto injury care, including:

• Dry Needling
• Corrective strengthening exercises
• Therapeutic massage
• Ultrasound therapy
• Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS)
• Cervical traction
• Postural rehabilitation

Each care plan is personalized based on your injury, symptoms, and recovery goals.

---

You Don’t Have to Live With Post-Accident Pain

Car accidents happen in an instant—but their effects can last months or even years without proper care.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident and lives in Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, or anywhere in the Twin Cities, I encourage you to seek evaluation.

Early treatment often means:
✔ Faster healing
✔ Less long-term pain
✔ Fewer chronic complications
✔ Better overall outcomes

You can also learn about Minnesota’s no-fault auto insurance coverage here:
👉 https://mn.gov/commerce/insurance/auto/basics/no-fault.jsp

---

Ready to Get Relief?

If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing neck pain, headaches, or stiffness, I invite you to reach out to my clinic.

Your recovery matters—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Request Appointment

Dr. Lori Jokinen, DC
Chiropractic & Auto Injury Care
Functional Health Unlimited
Woodbury, Minnesota