Car Accident Injury Treatment with Dr. Kirk Hansen
Chiropractor in Lacey, WA

Auto accidents can cause lasting pain, even from what may seem like a minor collision. Whiplash, one of the most common accident-related injuries, often leads to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Left untreated, these symptoms can linger for weeks or even months, interfering with your work, sleep, and daily life.

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At our office in Lacey, WA, chiropractor Dr. Kirk Hansen provides compassionate, effective care for patients recovering from auto accidents. With advanced training in chiropractic orthopedics, he focuses on identifying the underlying injuries, easing pain, and helping you return to normal activities safely.

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Understanding Whiplash and Auto Accident Injuries

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Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly forced forward and backward, straining the muscles, ligaments, and joints. While neck pain is the most common symptom, whiplash and other accident-related injuries may also cause:

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• Shoulder or upper back pain

• Headaches or migraines

• Numbness or tingling in the arms

• Dizziness or blurred vision

• Lower back pain

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Because symptoms may not appear right away, it’s important to be evaluated soon after an accident.

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How Dr. Hansen Can Help

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Dr. Hansen begins with a thorough orthopedic and neurological exam to identify injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Based on your evaluation, your care plan may include:

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• Gentle chiropractic adjustments to restore proper alignment in the spine and relieve pressure on the nervous system

• Targeted care for injured muscles and joints in the neck, shoulders, and back

• Recommendations for posture, activity modification, or home stretches to support healing

• Ongoing progress checks to ensure your recovery stays on track

With his “catch and release” philosophy, Dr. Hansen provides care only as long as it’s necessary. Whether your recovery requires just a few visits or a short series of treatments, you remain in control.

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Why Patients Choose Dr. Hansen in Lacey

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Patients appreciate Dr. Hansen’s private, one-on-one approach and his reputation for ethical, effective care. He understands the stress and uncertainty that often follow auto accidents, and he provides not only treatment but also clear explanations and support throughout recovery.

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Know Your Rights After an Auto Accident

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After an auto accident, dealing with injuries is stressful enough, the last thing you need is confusion about where to get care. Unfortunately, some clinics use aggressive tactics, contacting patients directly and pretending to be associated with their insurance company. They may pressure you into thinking you have to see a specific provider.

Here’s the truth: you have the right to choose your own chiropractor after an auto accident. Your insurance company does not assign you to one specific office. If someone calls you and claims otherwise, it’s important to know that you are free to make your own decision about where to receive treatment.

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At Dr. Hansen’s office, we believe in transparency and honesty. You’ll never get pushy phone calls or misleading information. Instead, you’ll receive one-on-one, compassionate care in a private setting, with clear explanations about your injury and your treatment options.

Our goal is simple, to help you recover safely and effectively, on your terms.

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Whiplash & Auto Accident FAQs

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Do I need to see a chiropractor after a car accident, even if I feel fine?

Yes. Some injuries don’t cause immediate symptoms but can worsen over time. Whiplash, back pain, and joint injuries often appear hours or days later. Getting checked by Dr. Hansen as soon as possible ensures that hidden issues are identified and treated early, helping you avoid chronic pain and long-term complications.

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How long does whiplash take to heal?

Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury and how soon you begin care. Some patients recover quickly, while others need ongoing treatment to restore normal movement and reduce inflammation. Dr. Hansen will evaluate your condition and outline realistic expectations for your recovery.

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Will insurance cover chiropractic care after an auto accident?

Yes. Auto accident claims are typically covered, and Dr. Hansen’s office accepts most major insurance plans—including Kaiser Permanente, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, Premera, United Healthcare, and Medicare. His team will guide you through the process to make sure your care is handled smoothly.

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Can chiropractic care help with more than just neck pain?

Yes. Chiropractic care after an accident can help with a wide range of symptoms, including back pain, headaches, dizziness, stiffness, muscle soreness, and sciatica. Dr. Hansen provides safe, effective care to relieve pain, restore movement, and help you heal naturally.

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What do I need to know after I’ve had a car accident?

After a car accident, it’s important to prioritize your health. Even if you don’t feel hurt, you could have hidden soft tissue or spinal injuries. Dr. Hansen recommends scheduling an evaluation as soon as possible to prevent minor issues from turning into long-term problems. His chiropractic care focuses on natural healing, pain relief, and restoring proper function—without drugs or surgery.

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Does the insurance company contact me after I’ve been in an accident?

Yes, it’s common for insurance representatives to contact you after an accident. However, some patients in the Lacey area have received misleading calls from offices pretending to be associated with their insurance company. These callers often try to steer patients toward specific clinics. You have the right to choose where you receive care. If you’re unsure who’s calling, contact your insurance provider directly or call Dr. Hansen’s office for clarification.

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Will my insurance company recommend a provider if I’ve been hurt in a car accident?

In most cases, your insurance company won’t require or assign you to a specific provider. You have the freedom to choose where to receive care. Be cautious of unsolicited calls claiming to represent your insurance company. Dr. Hansen’s office works directly with auto accident claims and most major insurance providers to ensure your recovery is covered and stress-free.

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How soon should I see Dr. Hansen after a car accident?

It’s best to be evaluated right away—even if you don’t have pain yet. Early care helps detect hidden injuries, reduce inflammation, and speed up recovery. Dr. Hansen provides thorough evaluations for patients from Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater to help them start healing as quickly as possible.

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Can Dr. Hansen help with whiplash from a car accident?

Yes. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after a car accident. Dr. Hansen uses gentle, precise chiropractic adjustments to relieve neck pain, reduce stiffness, and restore normal movement. His approach helps your body heal naturally and prevents long-term discomfort.

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Does Dr. Hansen accept automobile accident and L&I claims?

Yes. Dr. Hansen accepts automobile accident claims, Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) cases, and workers’ compensation injuries. His team is experienced in handling the paperwork so you can focus on getting better.

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Can Dr. Hansen help if I live in Olympia or Tumwater?

Absolutely. Many of Dr. Hansen’s patients come from Olympia and Tumwater because his office in Lacey is easy to reach and offers exceptional care. He helps patients across Thurston County recover from auto accidents, relieve pain, and get back to feeling their best.

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Take the First Step Toward Recovery

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If you’ve been in an auto accident, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. If you’re searching for a chiropractor in Lacey, WA who provides effective, compassionate care for whiplash and other accident-related injuries, Dr. Kirk Hansen is here to help. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

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Insurance Accepted

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For your convenience, Dr. Hansen is a preferred provider with most major insurance companies, including Kaiser Permanente, BCBS, Regence, Premera, Aetna, Cigna, Providence Health Plan, United Healthcare, First Choice Health Plans, TriWest, and VA-CCN Veterans Health.

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He also works with Medicare, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, and many union and trust plans. In addition, our office accepts automobile accident claims and L&I work injury cases.

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If you are unsure about your specific coverage, our friendly staff will gladly assist you in verifying your benefits before beginning care.