Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that commonly occurs in car accidents, especially during rear-end collisions. The rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck can strain muscles, ligaments, and nerves, leading to a wide range of symptoms. While some signs show up immediately, others may take several hours or days to appear.

If you’ve been in a car accident in Kansas City, Overland Park, or Leawood, knowing the signs of whiplash can help you recognize when it’s time to seek care.

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Common Symptoms of Whiplash After an Auto Accident

1. Neck Pain or Stiffness

Pain or reduced range of motion in the neck is one of the most common symptoms of whiplash. This may be felt when turning your head, tilting it, or holding certain positions.

2. Headaches

Post-traumatic headaches are often reported after collisions. These may start at the base of the skull and radiate toward the forehead.

3. Shoulder or Upper Back Pain

The impact of a crash can strain muscles in the upper back and shoulders, resulting in soreness or sharp discomfort.

4. Dizziness or Balance Issues

Feeling dizzy, unsteady, or lightheaded can indicate a disruption in the neck’s relationship with the vestibular system, which helps control balance.

5. Blurred Vision

Intermittent visual changes, such as blurred vision or trouble focusing, may be connected to cervical spine injuries like whiplash.

6. Tingling or Numbness

A pinched nerve or inflammation may lead to tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or hands.

7. Difficulty Concentrating or Mental Fog

Cognitive issues such as forgetfulness, slowed thinking, or feeling mentally “foggy” are sometimes overlooked but important symptoms of whiplash.

8. Fatigue

Feeling abnormally tired may be a sign your body is working overtime to heal or compensate for hidden injuries.

9. Jaw Pain or Clicking

The forces of impact can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing discomfort or clicking sounds while chewing or speaking.

10. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)

Some individuals notice buzzing, ringing, or discomfort in the ears after a car crash. This may be related to nerve irritation or joint strain.

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Why You Should Seek Medical Evaluation

In the Kansas City metro, many people delay treatment after an accident, assuming their symptoms will go away. But whiplash can worsen if left untreated. A comprehensive medical evaluation can identify soft tissue, neurological, and musculoskeletal damage that may not show up on standard imaging tests.

At Keystone Medical Group, we provide thorough assessments for individuals involved in auto accidents. Our treatment approach includes physical therapy, medical care, and coordination with trusted local chiropractors when appropriate. We customize care plans to meet your recovery goals and help restore your quality of life.

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Serving Kansas City, Overland Park, and Leawood

If you’ve been in a crash and are experiencing neck pain, headaches, or other signs of whiplash, don’t wait. Contact Keystone Medical Group to schedule a consultation.

Call 816-705-2842 to speak with our team or request an appointment online.