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Are Headaches After a Car Accident a Sign of a Concussion?

Are Headaches After a Car Accident a Sign of a Concussion?

Headaches are a common symptom after a car accident, but they can sometimes be more than just a result of neck or muscle strain. In some cases, persistent headaches may indicate a concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Understanding when headaches signal a concussion can help you take the necessary steps to get the right care.

headache after a car accident

How Can a Concussion Cause Headaches?

A concussion occurs when the brain is jolted inside the skull, often due to the force of an accident. This can lead to inflammation and other changes in brain function, which commonly result in headaches. Other symptoms of a concussion may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Confusion

If you’re experiencing headaches along with these symptoms, it could be a sign of a concussion and requires prompt medical attention.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If your headaches after a car accident are severe, persistent, or worsening, it’s essential to consult a personal injury doctor. Delaying treatment could lead to further complications. At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in evaluating and treating concussions. Our team, including Lance Stevenson, Managing Director, and Erik Hansen, PT, is dedicated to offering tailored treatment plans for post-accident concussion care.

Treatment for Headaches Caused by Concussions

  • Rest and Monitoring: Often, initial rest is necessary to allow the brain to heal.
  • Physical Therapy: Specialized treatments such as vestibular rehabilitation can help alleviate symptoms and improve balance.
  • Pain Management: Medications may be used to help reduce headache pain while addressing the underlying injury.

FAQ:

Q: How do I know if my headache is from a concussion?
A: If your headache is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or confusion, it could be a sign of a concussion.

Q: Can a concussion cause headaches immediately after a car accident?
A: Yes, headaches from a concussion can appear right away or develop over time, often within the first 24-48 hours after the accident.

How Long Do Headaches Last After a Car Accident?

How Long Do Headaches Last After a Car Accident?

Experiencing a headache after a car accident is common, but the duration of the pain can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the injury. How long do headaches last? Whether it’s a mild headache or something more serious like a concussion or whiplash, it’s important to understand what factors influence how long these headaches may last and when you should seek treatment.

Why Do Headaches Occur After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, the force of the impact can cause physical trauma to the neck, head, and spine. This can lead to a variety of injuries that may trigger headaches. Some of the common causes include:

  • Whiplash: When the head is jerked suddenly during the accident, it can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck. This can lead to tension headaches, which often last for days or weeks.
  • Concussion: A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur even if you don’t lose consciousness. Symptoms include persistent headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, which may last for weeks or longer.
  • Spinal and Neck Injuries: Injuries to the neck or spine, including misalignments or muscle strains, can also lead to headaches that persist after an accident.

How Long Can Headaches Last After an Accident?

The length of time that headaches last after an accident depends on the type of injury and how the body heals. Here’s a general breakdown:

  1. Mild Headaches: These can last a few hours to a few days. Most of the time, they are caused by minor strains or injuries to the neck or muscles. Over-the-counter pain medications can often provide relief.
  2. Moderate Headaches: These might last for a few weeks and can be linked to more significant injuries, such as whiplash. In these cases, treatment like physical therapy for whiplash, pain management, and muscle relaxation techniques may be needed.
  3. Severe or Chronic Headaches: For some people, headaches after an accident can persist for months or even longer. This is especially common if a concussion or TBI was involved. Chronic headaches may require specialized treatments like vestibular rehabilitation or ongoing pain management.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If your headaches don’t improve within a few days or if they worsen over time, it’s important to consult a personal injury doctor. For those who have experienced a concussion or other significant injuries, seeking professional care can help reduce the risk of long-term issues.

At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in evaluating and treating post-accident headaches caused by whiplash, concussions, and other injuries. Lance Stevenson, Managing Director, and our team of experts, including Erik Hansen, PT, provide comprehensive care to address headaches and other symptoms after car accidents. Serving Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, and Overland Park, we focus on personalized treatment plans to help you manage and alleviate pain.

Treatment Options for Headaches After a Car Accident

  1. Physical Therapy: Targeted physical therapy can help reduce muscle strain in the neck and shoulders, often alleviating headache pain caused by whiplash or other neck injuries.
  2. Pain Management: For severe headaches, medications or injections may be used to manage pain while addressing the underlying injury. Our goal is to relieve pain and facilitate healing without long-term reliance on medication.
  3. Spinal Adjustments: Misalignment in the spine can contribute to headache pain. Spinal adjustments can help realign the spine and reduce tension in the neck and back, which may provide relief.
  4. Vestibular Rehabilitation: If your headaches are related to a concussion or balance issues, vestibular therapy can help improve balance and reduce headaches. This specialized therapy focuses on exercises that restore the body’s natural balance function.

FAQ:

Q: How long does it take to feel better after a car accident headache?
A: Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild headaches may go away in a few days, but more severe headaches caused by whiplash or concussions may take weeks or even months to resolve.

Q: Are headaches after a car accident a sign of a concussion?
A: Yes, persistent headaches after a car accident can sometimes be a sign of a concussion or other brain injury. If you have a headache that doesn’t go away or gets worse, it’s important to see a concussion doctor.

Q: What should I do if my headache persists after an accident?
A: If your headache doesn’t improve or gets worse, it’s essential to seek medical advice. At Keystone Medical Group, we can help assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.

car accident doctor near me

Can a Concussion Cause Dizziness After a Car Accident?

Can a Concussion Cause Dizziness After a Car Accident?

Yes, a concussion can definitely cause dizziness after a car accident. In fact, dizziness is one of the most common symptoms following a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a collision. If you’ve been in a car accident and are feeling lightheaded, unbalanced, or experiencing vertigo, it’s important to understand why this happens and how it can be treated.

How Concussions Lead to Dizziness:

When your head experiences a sudden impact, such as in a car accident, the brain can be jolted within the skull, leading to a concussion. This impact can disturb the normal function of the brain, particularly the areas responsible for balance and coordination. Some common causes of dizziness after a concussion include:

  1. Damage to the Vestibular System
    The vestibular system, which is responsible for balance, can be disrupted after a concussion. This system includes parts of the inner ear and brain that help you maintain equilibrium. When damaged, it can cause vertigo, dizziness, and unsteadiness.
  2. Imbalance in the Brain’s Processing of Sensory Information
    After a concussion, the brain may struggle to process signals from the eyes, inner ear, and muscles that control balance. This leads to disorientation and dizziness, especially when moving or changing positions.
  3. Neck Strain and Whiplash
    In a car accident, the sudden jerking motion can also strain the neck and spine, which may contribute to dizziness. Whiplash injuries often go hand-in-hand with concussions and can exacerbate balance issues.
  4. Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS)
    For some people, concussion symptoms like dizziness can last for weeks or months, a condition known as Post-Concussion Syndrome. In these cases, dizziness may persist even after the initial symptoms have improved.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you’re experiencing dizziness after a car accident, it’s crucial to see a personal injury doctor or a concussion specialist. Left untreated, dizziness can interfere with your daily life, affecting your ability to work, drive, or perform simple tasks.

At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating concussions and related symptoms like dizziness. Our expert team, including Lance Stevenson, Managing Director, Erik Hansen, PT, and other medical professionals, offers vestibular rehabilitation and targeted physical therapy to help alleviate dizziness and restore balance.

Treatment for Dizziness After a Concussion:

  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This therapy is specifically designed to address balance issues caused by a concussion. It involves exercises to help the brain adapt to the changes caused by the injury and improve coordination.
  • Physical Therapy: A personalized program can help strengthen the neck and back muscles, reducing strain that contributes to dizziness.
  • Balance Training: Simple exercises that focus on improving your ability to stand, walk, and move without feeling unsteady.
  • Rest and Gradual Return to Activity: Rest is crucial immediately after a concussion, followed by a gradual return to normal activities under the supervision of a medical professional.

FAQ:

Q: How long will dizziness last after a concussion?
A: Dizziness can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the concussion. Some people experience persistent dizziness, which may require further treatment and therapy.

Q: Can vestibular rehabilitation help with dizziness?
A: Yes, vestibular rehabilitation is highly effective in treating dizziness and balance issues caused by concussions. It helps retrain the brain and body to work together to restore equilibrium.

What Is the Best Treatment for Whiplash?

What Is the Best Treatment for Whiplash?

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. If you’ve been in an accident and are experiencing neck pain, stiffness, or headaches, you may have whiplash. But what is the best treatment for whiplash?

best treatment for whiplash

Top Treatment Options for Whiplash:

  1. Physical Therapy One of the most effective treatments for whiplash is physical therapy. A skilled therapist can help you restore range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and improve strength. Vestibular rehabilitation may also be incorporated to address balance issues if they develop after the injury.
  2. Pain Management For immediate relief, pain management options like over-the-counter medications or prescription pain relievers may be used. In some cases, injections or nerve blocks may be recommended for more severe pain.
  3. Chiropractic Adjustments
    Spinal adjustments can help relieve pain and restore alignment in the neck and upper back. This treatment is beneficial if spinal misalignments occurred during the accident, contributing to pain and stiffness.
  4. Ice and Heat Therapy Using ice packs in the first 48 hours after the injury can reduce inflammation, while heat therapy can help relax tight muscles. These treatments are simple but effective for managing whiplash pain.
  5. Rest and Gentle Movement Initially, rest is crucial. But it’s also important to avoid prolonged inactivity. Gentle stretches and movement help prevent stiffness and speed up healing.
  6. Massage Therapy Therapeutic massage can help loosen up tight muscles and improve circulation in the neck and shoulders. It’s a great complementary treatment for whiplash.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you’re dealing with persistent neck pain, headaches after a car accident, or any symptoms that don’t improve within a few days, it’s essential to see a personal injury doctor or a whiplash specialist. At Keystone Medical Group, we help patients in Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and surrounding areas recover from whiplash and get back to their daily activities.

Our team, including Lance Stevenson, Managing Director, and Erik Hansen, PT, provides comprehensive whiplash physical therapy and pain management strategies tailored to your needs.

FAQ:

Q: How long does it take to treat whiplash?
A: Treatment for whiplash can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild cases may improve in a few weeks, while more severe cases may require several months of treatment.

Q: Can physical therapy help with whiplash?
A: Yes, physical therapy for whiplash is highly effective in improving flexibility, reducing pain, and preventing long-term complications.

Is It Normal to Have Headaches After a Car Accident?

Is It Normal to Have Headaches After a Car Accident?

Yes, headaches are a very common symptom following a car accident, and in many cases, they’re completely normal. Whether the crash was minor or more severe, the body reacts to the sudden jolt in various ways. Headaches after a car accident can be the result of several factors, ranging from whiplash to more serious injuries like a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

headache after a car accident

Why Do Car Accidents Cause Headaches?

There are several reasons why you might experience a headache after a car crash:

  1. Whiplash Injury
    Whiplash is one of the most common injuries from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. This sudden jolt causes the neck to whip back and forth, often leading to tension headaches. These headaches typically stem from strain in the neck muscles and surrounding tissue.
  2. Concussion or TBI
    Even if you don’t lose consciousness during the accident, the force from the collision can cause a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). A common symptom of a concussion is persistent headaches, often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, or difficulty concentrating.
  3. Neck and Spinal Strain
    When the neck and spine are misaligned from the impact, it can cause additional strain on the muscles and nerves. This can contribute to tension headaches, which feel like tightness or pressure around the head.
  4. Post-Trauma Inflammation
    After a car crash, inflammation in the head, neck, and shoulders can lead to headaches. This is a natural part of the body’s healing process, but it can also cause persistent discomfort.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If your headaches persist or worsen over time, it’s crucial to get checked by a personal injury doctor or concussion specialist. Prolonged or severe headaches could be a sign of a more serious injury that needs professional attention.

At Keystone Medical Group, our team of experts, including Lance Stevenson, Managing Director, and Erik Hansen, PT, offer a range of treatments to address headache symptoms caused by car accidents. We specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash, concussions, and other post-accident injuries in patients from Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and surrounding areas.

Effective Treatment for Post-Car Accident Headaches:

  • Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can relieve tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which may be contributing to your headaches. Specialized techniques help restore mobility and reduce pain.
  • Pain Management: Medications or injections may be prescribed to manage the pain while your body heals. Our goal is to provide safe and effective relief to get you back to normal.
  • Spinal Adjustments: For headaches caused by misalignment of the neck or spine, spinal adjustments can improve posture and reduce muscle strain, thus alleviating headache symptoms.
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: If your headaches are related to a concussion or vestibular issues, targeted rehabilitation therapy can help restore balance and reduce headache frequency.

FAQ:

Q: Can whiplash cause headaches?
A: Yes, whiplash is one of the leading causes of headaches after a car accident. The sudden jolt strains the neck muscles and can lead to tension headaches or cervicogenic headaches, which originate in the neck.

Q: How long do headaches last after an accident?
A: The length of time headaches last after a car accident depends on the severity of the injury. Mild headaches may go away in a few days, but more severe cases, especially if linked to concussions or whiplash, can last weeks or even months.

Q: Should I see a doctor for headaches after a car accident?
A: Absolutely. Even if your headaches seem minor, it’s important to get evaluated to rule out more serious injuries like a concussion or TBI. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment.

How Do I Know If I Have Whiplash After a Car Accident?

How Do I Know If I Have Whiplash After a Car Accident?

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in a car accident, and yet many people aren’t immediately aware that they have it. While some symptoms may appear right away, others can develop over time, making it crucial to be aware of what to watch for and why it’s important to get the right treatment early.

If you’ve been in an accident and are wondering “how do I know if I have whiplash?”, it’s essential to understand the signs and seek care from a personal injury doctor. Ignoring potential symptoms can lead to more serious complications down the road.

At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries, helping people in Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, and surrounding areas. Lance Stevenson, the Managing Director of Keystone Medical Group, shares that many individuals experience neck pain or stiffness after an accident but don’t always recognize it as whiplash. Seeking prompt evaluation and treatment can prevent longer-term issues.

Common Signs of Whiplash After a Car Accident

While whiplash is typically associated with neck injuries, the condition can have a range of symptoms that go beyond simple neck pain. Here are some common signs of whiplash:

  • Neck Pain or Stiffness: The most common symptom, often starting within hours of the accident.
  • Headaches: Pain that starts at the base of the skull and moves up toward the forehead.
  • Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unbalanced, especially when moving your head.
  • Tingling or Numbness in the Arms: This can be caused by nerve irritation or damage.
  • Difficulty Moving Your Neck: The inability to fully turn your head may indicate whiplash-related injury.
  • Fatigue: A common, often overlooked symptom where you may feel unusually tired or sluggish.

These symptoms can vary in intensity, and some may not appear until days after the accident. It’s important to remember that even if you don’t feel severe pain right away, a professional evaluation can help identify underlying issues like muscle strains, ligament tears, or nerve damage caused by whiplash.

Why Seeing a Doctor is Crucial for Whiplash

At Keystone Medical Group, we emphasize the importance of having your symptoms evaluated by a trained personal injury doctor. David Buechner, MD, a leading expert in the area, often stresses the need for an accurate diagnosis following an auto accident. Without treatment, whiplash can lead to ongoing pain, discomfort, and even long-term mobility issues.

Whiplash injuries can sometimes cause more than just muscle soreness. Without proper treatment, the injury may worsen, leading to chronic pain or neurological issues. Consulting with a doctor early on can help ensure that any damage is treated before it becomes a long-term problem.

Treatment Options for Whiplash at Keystone Medical Group

At Keystone Medical Group, our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries. The treatment process may include:

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and therapy help improve neck mobility, strength, and reduce pain.
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: If you’re experiencing dizziness or balance issues as a result of your whiplash, vestibular rehab can help you regain your equilibrium.
  • Posture Correction: Proper alignment and posture can relieve pressure from the neck and spine, reducing pain caused by whiplash.
  • Neck Traction Therapy: Gentle stretching techniques may help relieve pain and improve range of motion in the neck.

Our goal is to help you return to normal function as quickly as possible with treatments that focus on addressing the root causes of your pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How can I tell if my neck pain is from whiplash?
    Neck pain from whiplash often occurs after a car accident, and is typically accompanied by stiffness, headaches, or dizziness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.
  2. Can whiplash cause long-term problems?
    Yes, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and neurological issues over time. That’s why it’s crucial to seek care early after an accident.
  3. How long will it take to recover from whiplash?
    The recovery timeline for whiplash varies depending on the severity of the injury. Many people begin feeling better after a few weeks of treatment, though more severe cases may require several months.

Schedule a Consultation with Keystone Medical Group

If you’ve been in a car accident and suspect you have whiplash, Lance Stevenson and the team at Keystone Medical Group are ready to help you. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and start the process of whiplash treatment. Don’t wait—addressing the injury early on is the best way to ensure long-term health and well-being.

whiplash kansas city

How Do I Know if My Concussion is Getting Worse?

How Do I Know if My Concussion is Getting Worse?

After a car accident, a concussion can sometimes be difficult to assess. While many people experience mild symptoms that improve over time, others may find their condition worsening. Knowing the warning signs can help you take immediate action to prevent further damage. So how do I know if my concussion is getting worse?

Warning Signs Your Concussion May Be Getting Worse

  1. Worsening Headaches: If your headaches become more intense or frequent over time, it may indicate that the concussion is not improving.
  2. Increased Confusion or Memory Issues: Struggling to remember things, feeling disoriented, or having difficulty concentrating can be signs that your brain is not healing as it should.
  3. Dizziness or Balance Problems: Persistent or worsening dizziness and balance issues can suggest the concussion is affecting more than just your brain and may need specialized treatment like vestibular rehabilitation.
  4. Nausea or Vomiting: If you experience ongoing nausea or vomiting, especially after the initial injury, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
  5. Sensitivity to Light or Sound: An increase in sensitivity to light or noise is another red flag that your concussion may be worsening.
  6. Slurred Speech or Difficulty Walking: These symptoms should be taken seriously and require immediate medical attention.

What Should You Do If You Notice These Symptoms?

If you notice any of the symptoms above or feel like your condition is deteriorating, it’s crucial to consult with a concussion doctor or a personal injury doctor. Getting proper care can help you address these symptoms before they lead to more severe complications. At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in concussion evaluations and treatments, helping patients from Kansas City and surrounding areas like Overland Park and Leawood manage their injuries effectively.

When to Seek Immediate Help

If you experience sudden changes like loss of coordination, difficulty staying awake, or any severe neurological symptoms, get medical help immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to improve on their own—getting checked early can speed up your recovery.

FAQ:

Q: How do I know if my concussion is getting better?
A: You should notice a reduction in symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion. If symptoms persist or get worse, it’s time to seek medical attention.

Q: Can a concussion get worse over time?
A: Yes, if not treated properly or if you return to physical activity too soon, a concussion can worsen, leading to long-term issues.


If you have recently experienced a concussion because of a car accident, contact Lance Stevenson at 816-705-2842.

concussion symptoms kansas

Do I Have a Concussion After My Car Accident?

Do I Have a Concussion After My Car Accident?

Do I Have a Concussion After My Car Accident? You might.

Concussions are often an underestimated injury after a car accident. Even if you feel fine immediately following the accident, symptoms of a concussion can appear hours or days later. A concussion can cause lasting damage if not addressed properly, so it’s important to recognize the signs early and seek professional evaluation and treatment.

At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating concussions caused by auto accidents. If you’ve been involved in a car accident and suspect you may have a concussion, it’s crucial to seek an evaluation from a trained concussion doctor to ensure you get the care you need.

concussion doctor kansas

Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident

Unlike more visible injuries, the symptoms of a concussion can be subtle, and you may not notice them right away. Here are some common signs of a concussion that may appear after a car accident:

  • Headaches or Migraines: A persistent headache or severe migraine following an accident can indicate a concussion.
  • Dizziness or Nausea: Feeling lightheaded or nauseous, especially when standing up or moving your head, is a common concussion symptom.
  • Memory Problems: Difficulty recalling the accident or remembering recent events could be a sign of a concussion.
  • Blurred Vision: Vision disturbances, including blurred or double vision, can also indicate a concussion.
  • Sensitivity to Light and Noise: Becoming overly sensitive to bright lights or loud sounds is another potential sign of a concussion.

These symptoms may worsen over time or be difficult to identify at first, which is why it’s important to consult with a personal injury doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Why You Should Get Evaluated by a Concussion Specialist

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s essential to see a specialist who can accurately assess your condition. Lance Stevenson, Managing Director of Keystone Medical Group, emphasizes, “Even if your symptoms seem mild, early intervention can help prevent long-term effects. Concussions are serious injuries, and getting the proper care early can lead to better outcomes.”

Seeing a concussion doctor promptly can help detect any TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) or complications that may arise from a concussion. At Keystone Medical Group, our team of experts can conduct the necessary tests, including balance testing and cognitive evaluations, to accurately diagnose your condition.

How Concussion Treatment Works

After a concussion diagnosis, treatment typically includes a combination of vestibular rehabilitation, neuromuscular reeducation, and other therapies to help restore balance and cognitive function.

  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: This specialized therapy helps treat dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues that often occur after a concussion.
  • Neuromuscular Reeducation: Focusing on improving coordination and stability, this therapy helps the brain re-establish proper connections to support movement.

These treatments are tailored to your specific needs and are aimed at speeding up the healing process and ensuring that you return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the most common symptoms of a concussion after a car accident?
    Headaches, dizziness, memory problems, blurred vision, and nausea are the most common symptoms of a concussion after a car accident. If you experience any of these, it’s important to see a concussion doctor.
  2. Can a concussion cause long-term issues?
    Yes, untreated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional difficulties. This is why prompt treatment is essential to avoid complications like chronic headaches or memory problems.
  3. How long does it take to heal from a concussion after a car accident?
    Healing time varies from person to person. Mild concussions may improve within a few weeks, while more severe concussions may require several months of treatment. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help shorten recovery time.

Contact Keystone Medical Group for Concussion Treatment in Kansas City

If you suspect you may have a concussion after a car accident, don’t wait to seek treatment. Lance Stevenson and the team at Keystone Medical Group are ready to help you get the specialized care you need for a safe and effective treatment plan. Schedule an evaluation today.

How Can Physical Therapy Help with Whiplash After a Car Accident?

How can Physical Therapy help with whiplash?

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries following a car accident, particularly rear-end collisions. People often times ask how can physical therapy help with whiplash? This injury occurs when your head is forcefully thrown forward and then snapped backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. While the effects of whiplash can be immediate, physical therapy is one of the best ways to treat the injury and prevent long-term pain.

At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in treating whiplash injuries and other car accident-related injuries with a comprehensive physical therapy approach. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, seeking professional care early can help you get on the path to healing faster.

The Impact of Whiplash on Your Neck and Body

When you suffer from whiplash, the forces acting on your neck can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Neck stiffness and pain
  • Headaches (often at the base of the skull)
  • Shoulder pain and upper back discomfort
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Muscle spasms

For many people, these symptoms can become chronic if not addressed properly. That’s why it’s essential to seek treatment from a personal injury doctor as soon as possible after a car accident. Lance Stevenson, Managing Director of Keystone Medical Group, stresses the importance of early intervention: “Even if the symptoms seem mild, it’s crucial to get evaluated early. Whiplash can lead to long-term issues like chronic neck pain or headaches if not managed appropriately.”

Physical Therapy for Whiplash Treatment

Physical therapy for whiplash focuses on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and strengthening the muscles in the neck and upper back. At Keystone Medical Group, we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

Erik Hansen, PT, leads our physical therapy team and uses a variety of techniques to treat whiplash, including:

  • Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension
  • Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
  • Strengthening exercises to support the neck and upper back muscles
  • Postural training to help prevent future injuries

These treatments not only help with pain relief but also work to restore function and mobility, ensuring you can return to your daily activities as quickly as possible.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Whiplash?

Recovery time for whiplash can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some individuals may start to feel relief within a few weeks, while others may experience symptoms for several months. It’s important to note that proper physical therapy can significantly shorten recovery time and help prevent long-term issues such as chronic pain or recurring headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whiplash Treatment

  1. How soon should I start physical therapy after a car accident?
    It’s best to begin physical therapy as soon as possible after the injury. Early intervention can help reduce inflammation and improve the healing process.
  2. Can whiplash cause long-term pain?
    Without proper treatment, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, headaches, and muscle stiffness. Seeking professional care early can help prevent these long-term effects.
  3. What are the signs I need physical therapy for whiplash?
    If you’re experiencing ongoing neck pain, headaches, or muscle stiffness following a car accident, physical therapy may be beneficial to help alleviate symptoms and improve your mobility.

If you’ve been in a car accident and are dealing with whiplash, don’t wait to get the care you need. Lance Stevenson and the team at Keystone Medical Group are here to provide you with effective, personalized physical therapy treatment that will help you feel better faster.

personal injury doctor

What Are the Long-Term Effects of a Car Accident on Your Neck?

What are the long-term effects of a car accident on your neck?

Neck injuries are common in car accidents, especially when they involve sudden impacts that cause your head to jerk forward and backward. These types of injuries, often leading to whiplash, can result in long-term discomfort and complications if not properly treated. At Keystone Medical Group, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neck injuries caused by car accidents, offering targeted care to help reduce pain and restore function.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Neck Injury Effects

In the short term, you may experience:

  • Neck stiffness
  • Headaches
  • Shoulder pain

However, if left untreated or inadequately addressed, these symptoms can evolve into long-term problems, including:

  • Chronic neck pain that can affect mobility
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
  • Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort

As Lance Stevenson, Managing Director of Keystone Medical Group, points out, early intervention is crucial in preventing long-term complications. “The longer you wait to get help, the greater the chances of symptoms becoming persistent or even disabling,” he says.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy for neck injuries is one of the most effective treatments for restoring function and reducing pain. At Keystone Medical Group, we provide personalized physical therapy plans designed to target neck muscles, improve range of motion, and relieve tension.

Whether you’ve experienced a whiplash injury or another type of neck strain, our physical therapist, Erik Hansen, PT, tailors treatments that may include:

  • Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
  • Strengthening exercises to support neck muscles
  • Manual therapy to reduce tension and pain

Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Injuries After a Car Accident

  1. Can neck injuries from a car accident cause permanent damage?
    With proper treatment, most neck injuries can heal within a few weeks or months. However, untreated injuries may lead to chronic pain or long-term issues.
  2. How long does it take for a neck injury to heal?
    Healing time varies depending on the severity of the injury. For minor strains, it can take a few weeks. More severe injuries may take several months.
  3. Should I see a doctor even if my neck pain isn’t severe?
    Yes. It’s important to get checked by a personal injury doctor as soon as possible after a car accident, even if symptoms seem mild. Early treatment can help prevent long-term issues.

If you’ve been in a car accident and are dealing with neck pain, Lance Stevenson and the team at Keystone Medical Group can provide comprehensive physical therapy care to help you heal and get back to your normal routine.