Meet Bernie ”Stallone” LaChance
Bernie brings joy, calm, and a whole lot of tail wags to the Wave UCC office.
As the official clinic greeter and nap coordinator, he’s everyone’s favorite team member.
A Loyal Companion Turned Chiropractic Supervisor
Bernie was born at the Crawford County Humane Society in Ohio in 2011 and rescued at just 6 weeks old by Katie. Through every chapter of her journey—from nursing school to starting her career—Bernie has been there, tail wagging.
In 2020, Bernie met Dr. LaChance and became an instant part of the team. By 2022, he had moved to sunny Florida and stepped into his most important role yet:
Official Office Supervisor at Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic
Whether he’s greeting clients at the door or snoozing under Dr. Ryan’s desk, Bernie takes his responsibilities seriously—and keeps the office feeling warm and welcoming.
Daily Duties at the Clinic
Bernie is more than a cute face.
His core responsibilities include:
- Welcoming patients with gentle tail wags and kind eyes
- Monitoring office vibes and maintaining high morale
- Supervising naps and occasional snack breaks
- Comforting patients and making everyone feel at ease
He's known for boosting moods and making every visit to Wave UCC feel a little more like home.
Life Outside the Office
Off the clock, Bernie loves:
- Long walks in the Florida sunshine
- Car rides with the windows down
- Camping trips with Dr. Ryan and Katie
- Dining out at dog-friendly patios and outdoor cafes
His favorite foods include steak, liver, eggs, and cheese—though he’s also happy to accept belly rubs as a treat.
A True Team Player
At home, Bernie shares his space (and sometimes his dog bed) with Henrietta, the family’s Siamese cat and part-time lizard patrol. The two get along famously and are inseparable members of the Wave UCC family.
Bernie’s calm energy, loyalty, and charm help define the unique, welcoming culture of Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic.
Real Reviews by Patients from the Tampa Bay Area
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2643 Narnia Way, Suite 101
Land O’ Lakes, FL 34638
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Discover how chiropractic care transforms lives.
Can a Chiropractor Help with Headaches?
Understanding Headaches and Their Causes
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can range from mild tension headaches to severe migraines, disrupting daily activities and reducing quality of life. Many headaches are caused by muscle tension, nerve irritation, or misalignment of the cervical spine—areas where chiropractic care can make a significant difference.
Common Types of Headaches
- Tension headaches: Characterized by a constant, dull ache, often linked to stress or muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders.
- Migraines: Intense, throbbing pain often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances.
- Cervicogenic headaches: Originating from neck issues, these headaches cause pain that radiates from the neck to the head.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care, especially upper cervical chiropractic, focuses on restoring proper alignment in the spine to relieve pressure on nerves and muscles. By addressing the root cause of headaches—whether it’s tension, misalignment, or nerve irritation—chiropractors can provide lasting relief.
Benefits of Chiropractic for Headaches
- Reduces the frequency and intensity of headaches
- Alleviates neck and shoulder tension contributing to head pain
- Improves spinal alignment for better nerve function
- Offers a natural, drug-free alternative to headache medications
- Promotes relaxation and overall well-being
Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Headaches
At Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we specialize in gentle, precise adjustments targeting the upper neck area. Misalignments in the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae can contribute to headaches by disrupting nerve communication and causing muscle tension. Our approach restores proper alignment, allowing the body to heal naturally.
When to Seek Chiropractic Care for Headaches
If you experience frequent headaches, migraines, or persistent neck tension, chiropractic care may be the solution. Many patients notice a significant improvement in symptoms after just a few adjustments. Even if headaches are mild, addressing them early can prevent them from becoming chronic and debilitating.
Take the First Step Toward Headache Relief
Don’t let headaches control your life. At Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic in Land O’ Lakes, FL, we’re here to help you find natural, lasting relief. Book your consultation today and discover how chiropractic care can help you live headache-free.
How Do You Know If You Have Whiplash?
Understanding Whiplash: A Common Neck Injury
Whiplash occurs when the neck is abruptly forced backward and forward, causing strain or tears in the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. This sudden motion is common in rear-end car accidents, contact sports, or any situation where the neck experiences rapid movement. While whiplash is often thought of as a minor injury, its symptoms can linger and impact daily life if left untreated.
What Causes Whiplash?
The most common causes of whiplash include:
- Automobile accidents, especially rear-end collisions
- Sports injuries in contact sports like football or hockey
- Falls that result in sudden neck movement
- Physical assault, such as being shaken or punched
How to Recognize Whiplash Symptoms
Whiplash symptoms can vary from person to person and may not appear immediately after an injury. Some of the most common signs include:
- Neck pain and stiffness – A sore, stiff neck is one of the hallmark symptoms of whiplash.
- Limited range of motion – Difficulty turning your head or tilting it forward and backward.
- Headaches – Often starting at the base of the skull and radiating toward the forehead.
- Shoulder and upper back pain – Pain that spreads to the shoulders and upper back muscles.
- Tingling or numbness – Sensations in the arms or hands due to nerve irritation.
- Dizziness – Feeling unsteady or lightheaded.
When to See a Chiropractor
If you notice these symptoms after an accident or sudden neck movement, it’s important to seek care. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, symptoms can develop over hours or days. Ignoring whiplash may lead to chronic pain, headaches, and long-term neck stiffness.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Whiplash Recovery
Upper cervical chiropractic care offers a gentle, precise approach to helping your body recover from whiplash. Unlike traditional adjustments that involve forceful manipulation, upper cervical techniques focus on correcting misalignments in the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, which play a crucial role in supporting the head and neck.
Benefits of Upper Cervical Care for Whiplash
- Reduces inflammation and muscle tension
- Restores normal spinal alignment and nerve function
- Alleviates headaches and neck pain
- Promotes faster healing and recovery
- Gentle and safe, without twisting or popping
Whiplash Doesn’t Have to Linger
Many people think whiplash is just a minor inconvenience, but without proper care, it can lead to long-term discomfort. Chiropractic care can address the root cause of your pain, restoring balance to your spine and allowing your body to heal naturally.
Take Action Today
If you suspect you have whiplash or are experiencing neck pain, headaches, or dizziness after an accident, don’t wait. Dr. Ryan LaChance at Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic in Land O’ Lakes is here to help you recover safely and gently. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward relief.
What Is NUCCA Chiropractic?
Understanding NUCCA Chiropractic
NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) chiropractic is a specialized form of upper cervical care focused on correcting misalignments in the top vertebrae of the spine—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). Unlike traditional chiropractic methods that may involve twisting, cracking, or popping, NUCCA adjustments are exceptionally gentle and precise.
How Does NUCCA Work?
Using detailed X-rays and biomechanical analysis, a NUCCA chiropractor determines the exact degree of misalignment. The adjustment is performed using light, controlled pressure directed at the neck’s top vertebrae. This restores proper alignment and helps the nervous system function optimally.
Benefits of NUCCA Chiropractic
- Relieves headaches, migraines, and neck pain
- Improves balance and reduces dizziness
- Restores normal nerve communication and promotes natural healing
- Gentle and safe—no popping, cracking, or twisting
Who Can Benefit from NUCCA?
NUCCA chiropractic is suitable for individuals of all ages, including children and seniors. It's especially helpful for people experiencing chronic pain, vertigo, whiplash, or postural imbalances.
Experience NUCCA at Wave UCC
At Wave Upper Cervical Chiropractic in Land O’ Lakes, FL, Dr. Ryan LaChance specializes in NUCCA adjustments to help patients achieve lasting relief and improved wellness. Ready to experience a gentle approach to chiropractic care? Book your appointment today.
Start Your Chiropractic Journey Today
Schedule your personalized assessment over the phone with one of our in-house chiropractors — and discover how upper cervical chiropractic care can help you regain your health.
