Car Accident Chiropractor in Pittsburgh's North Hills
In a car accident? Call and tell us it's an auto injury — we prioritize prompt evaluations for accident patients.
Why see a chiropractor after a car accident — even a minor one
Whiplash and spinal strain injuries often don't produce their worst symptoms until 24–72 hours after a collision. Adrenaline masks pain at the scene; stiffness, headaches, and radiating pain show up later. A chiropractic evaluation within the first few days documents the injury properly, catches problems the ER isn't looking for, and gets treatment started while tissue is still in the acute healing window.
The hospital's job is to rule out fractures, head injury, and internal bleeding. It does not typically evaluate ligament sprain, joint dysfunction, or nerve irritation — the injuries that cause lingering pain. Left untreated, these can settle into chronic neck pain, headaches, and restricted motion that persist for years.
Injuries we treat after a crash
- Whiplash (cervical sprain/strain)
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Low back and mid-back pain
- Headaches beginning at the base of the skull
- Shoulder, rib, and chest-wall pain from seatbelt loading
- Numbness or tingling into the arms or legs
- Jaw (TMJ) pain from impact
- Aggravation of prior spinal conditions
What your first visit looks like
- Accident history — mechanism of injury (rear-end, side impact, speed, headrest position, seatbelt use), your symptoms and when they started.
- Examination — spinal and extremity range of motion, orthopedic and neurological testing, palpation for muscle and ligament injury, and joint dysfunction.
- Imaging if needed — X-ray, MRI, or CT ordered when the exam warrants it.
- Treatment plan — gentle, specific adjustments (Diversified, Thompson), Graston Technique® instrument-assisted soft-tissue work for scar tissue, movement guidance, and home exercises. No long-term contracts.
- Documentation — thorough clinical notes that support your insurance claim and, if you have one, your attorney's case.
How Pennsylvania auto insurance pays for chiropractic care
Pennsylvania is a "choice no-fault" state. Every Pennsylvania auto policy must include at least $5,000 in first-party medical benefits (often called PIP or MedPay). Those benefits pay for your treatment regardless of fault — whether you were the driver, a passenger, or a pedestrian. This coverage typically pays with no health-insurance copay or deductible, and it applies whether you selected limited tort or full tort.
- Your auto insurance company name and policy number
- Your claim number (call your insurer to open a claim before your first visit if possible)
- Date of the accident
- Police report number, if one was filed
- Your attorney's name and contact information, if you have retained one
We bill the auto carrier directly. If your medical benefits are exhausted, we'll walk you through the next options — health insurance, an attorney letter of protection, or self-pay.
Read our full guide to Pennsylvania auto insurance, limited tort, and full tort →
Working with your attorney
If you have retained a personal injury attorney, we coordinate directly with their office: timely records, narrative reports when requested, and clear communication about your treatment plan and progress. If you don't have an attorney and aren't sure whether you need one, our Pennsylvania insurance guide explains the difference between limited and full tort and when legal representation matters.
Serving the North Hills and Pittsburgh's northern corridor
We're at 120 Three Degree Rd, Suite C, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, just off McKnight Road — minutes from I-279, Route 19, and Route 8. Patients come to us from Ross Township, West View, McCandless, Wexford, Ohio Township, Ben Avon, Bellevue, Millvale, and the North Side.
North Hills West View Ohio Township
Frequently asked questions
Should I see a chiropractor after a minor car accident?
Yes. Whiplash and spinal strain injuries frequently appear 24–72 hours after a crash, even at low speeds with little vehicle damage. An early evaluation documents the injury and starts treatment before tissue heals in a restricted pattern.
How soon after a car accident should I get evaluated?
Ideally within 48–72 hours. Earlier evaluation leads to better outcomes and creates a clear record connecting your injury to the accident.
Who pays for chiropractic care after a car accident in Pennsylvania?
Your own auto policy's first-party medical benefits — a minimum of $5,000 in Pennsylvania — pay for treatment regardless of who was at fault. There is typically no health-insurance copay.
Do I need a referral or an attorney to be treated?
No. You can schedule directly. If you do have an attorney, we coordinate records and reports with their office.
Does limited tort affect whether I can get chiropractic treatment?
No. Limited tort only affects your ability to recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Your medical benefits pay for treatment under either election.
What if I already went to the ER?
The ER rules out fractures, head injury, and internal bleeding. It does not typically evaluate ligament sprain, joint dysfunction, or nerve irritation — the injuries that cause lingering pain. A chiropractic evaluation complements the ER visit.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on injury severity. Many patients improve within a few weeks; more significant soft-tissue injuries can take several months. We re-evaluate regularly and don't lock you into a contract.
Is there a time limit to file a claim in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.
This page provides general information about Pennsylvania auto insurance and is not legal advice. Coverage details vary by policy.