Headaches After a Car Accident? It Could Be More Serious Than You Think
It’s common to experience headaches after a car accident—but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Many people chalk it up to stress or tension, but in reality, these headaches can be a sign of deeper injuries such as a concussion, whiplash, or even nerve irritation.
At Keystone Medical Group, we help patients throughout Kansas City, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, and surrounding areas get to the root of their post-traumatic headaches and start feeling better—fast.
What Are Post-Traumatic Headaches?
Post-traumatic headaches (PTH) are headaches that develop within seven days of a head or neck injury, such as those caused by:
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Car accidents
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Slip and fall injuries
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Sports concussions
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Whiplash or neck trauma
These headaches can last for weeks or even months, especially if left untreated.
Common Types of Headaches After Trauma
Not all headaches are the same. Understanding the type helps us treat them more effectively:
1. Cervicogenic Headaches
Caused by injury to the neck (cervical spine), especially from whiplash. Pain often starts at the base of the skull and may radiate to the front.
2. Migraine-Like Headaches
Concussions and brain injuries can trigger migraines, even if you’ve never had them before. Symptoms include throbbing pain, light/sound sensitivity, and nausea.
3. Tension Headaches
These are caused by muscle strain or emotional stress after an accident. They usually feel like a band of pressure around the head.
4. Occipital Neuralgia
Irritation of the occipital nerves in the upper neck can cause sharp, stabbing pain at the back of the head.
When Should You Seek Help?
You should never “wait and see” when it comes to head pain after an injury. Seek care right away if:
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Your headaches started after an accident
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Pain is getting worse or more frequent
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You also have dizziness, nausea, memory issues, or vision problems
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Over-the-counter medications aren’t helping
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You feel foggy or have difficulty concentrating
Even if you didn’t hit your head, you can still have a brain injury or neck trauma causing your symptoms.
How Keystone Medical Group Can Help
At Keystone Medical Group, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for post-traumatic headaches. Our team uses a variety of tools to identify the root cause, including:
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Neurological and cognitive testing
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Cervical spine and posture evaluation
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Imaging (when needed)
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Balance and vestibular assessments
We then create a customized treatment plan that may include:
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Concussion rehab
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Vestibular therapy
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Spinal and soft tissue treatment
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Medication management
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Referral to neurologists or imaging if needed
Everything is coordinated through our case management team, so you don’t have to stress about navigating care on your own.
Trusted by Kansas City Area Patients
We serve patients across:
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Kansas City (KS & MO)
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Blue Springs
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Lee’s Summit
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Raytown
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Overland Park
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Olathe
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Independence and more
If you’ve recently been in an accident, you don’t have to suffer through lingering headaches. Let our team help you get the relief you deserve.
Call Today to Get Relief From Post-Traumatic Headaches
If you’re dealing with constant or recurring headaches after an injury, don’t wait. Call Keystone Medical Group today at 816-705-2842 to schedule your evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term issues and help you return to normal life faster.