Neck Pain After a Car Accident: Symptoms and Next Steps
Neck pain and stiffness are common after a car accident, and symptoms can develop hours or even days after the collision. An evaluation can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms and what next steps are appropriate. Spinal Connection Rehab & Wellness Center in North Miami Beach offers chiropractic and rehabilitation-oriented care for accident-related symptoms.
Why neck pain can appear after a crash
A forceful collision can strain the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues of the neck. The Mayo Clinic describes whiplash as an injury that happens when the head moves forcefully back and forward, most often in a rear-end collision. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke notes that the injury can involve the joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots of the neck.
Common neck pain symptoms after an accident
According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms can include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain that worsens with neck movement
- Loss of range of motion in the neck
- Headaches, most often starting at the base of the skull
- Tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back, or arms
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
- Tiredness
This list is not exhaustive, and these symptoms do not automatically mean you need chiropractic care. An evaluation can help determine what is appropriate for your situation.
Symptoms can be delayed
The Mayo Clinic notes that symptoms may not appear right away and often develop within days of the injury. Feeling fine at the scene does not rule out an injury, which is one reason a timely evaluation can be useful.
When to seek emergency care
Some symptoms need emergency attention. According to the Mayo Clinic, seek emergency care if numbness begins suddenly, follows a recent head injury, or involves an entire arm or leg, or if it occurs with weakness. If you have severe or emergency symptoms, call 911 rather than waiting for a chiropractic appointment.
What an evaluation at the clinic can involve
Dr. Lynn Labrousse reviews your history, discusses your symptoms, and completes a physical evaluation before recommending any care. In-office X-rays may be taken when appropriate. When appropriate, you receive an individualized care plan that may include chiropractic care, rehabilitation-oriented services, or other approaches, and the office documents visits thoroughly.
Common questions
Can neck pain start days after my accident?
Yes. The Mayo Clinic notes that whiplash symptoms often develop within days of the injury rather than immediately.
Is chiropractic care appropriate for everyone with neck pain after an accident?
No. Chiropractic care is not appropriate for every condition. An evaluation can help determine whether it is right for you and how it may fit with other care.
