Back Pain After a Car Accident: What to Know
Back pain and stiffness are common after a car accident. The forceful movements of a collision can strain the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues of the back, and symptoms may appear right away or days later. An appropriate evaluation can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms and what next steps make sense.
How a car accident can affect the back
During a collision, the body is subjected to sudden forces that can strain the spine and surrounding soft tissues. Sources such as the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke describe whiplash-type injuries that can involve joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots, with shoulder or back pain among the symptoms that may occur.
Symptoms to be aware of
- Back pain or stiffness
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Reduced range of motion
- Muscle pain or tightness
- Pain or tenderness that spreads to the arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling
- Headaches
This list is not exhaustive, and it does not mean any of these symptoms automatically require chiropractic care. An evaluation can help determine what is appropriate for your situation.
When to seek care
The Mayo Clinic advises seeing a healthcare professional if you have neck or back pain after a car accident, and seeking immediate care for signs such as pain spreading to the arms or legs, numbness, tingling, or weakness. If you have severe or emergency symptoms, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
How the clinic approaches back pain after an accident
Spinal Connection Rehab & Wellness Center specializes in auto accident and personal injury care. Care begins with an evaluation by Dr. Lynn Labrousse, who reviews your history, discusses your symptoms, and completes a physical examination before recommending anything. When appropriate, care may combine chiropractic treatment with rehabilitation-oriented services, and the clinic documents visits thoroughly.
Common questions
Should I be evaluated even if my back felt fine right after the accident?
An appropriate evaluation can help identify concerns early, since symptoms such as back pain and stiffness can develop days after a collision. If you have severe or emergency symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
Does the clinic treat back pain that is not related to an accident?
Yes. The clinic provides chiropractic and rehabilitation-oriented care for pain, and care always begins with an evaluation to determine what may be appropriate for your situation.
