Hurt in a Car Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know About Whiplash & Neck Pain
If you’ve recently been in a car accident, even a “minor” one, you may be feeling something you didn’t expect:
Neck pain. Headaches. Stiffness. That strange “pulling” sensation when you turn your head.
And maybe you’re wondering…
“Is this normal? Will it go away on its own?”
As a chiropractor who works with accident patients every week, here’s what I want you to know:
Pain after an accident is common, but it’s not normal, and it should never be ignored.
What Really Happens During Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the head is forced forward and backward quickly, similar to the crack of a whip.
This sudden motion stretches the ligaments, muscles, and joints in the neck beyond their normal range.
Even a low speed accident (yes, under 10 mph) can create enough force to injure the spine.
Most patients describe:
Sharp or aching neck pain
Headaches or eye strain
Upper back or shoulder tension
Dizziness or “foggy” feeling
Pain when checking blind spots
Trouble sleeping from discomfort
These symptoms don’t always show up immediately. Sometimes it takes hours or days for inflammation to fully set in.
Why Waiting Makes It Worse
A lot of people try to “tough it out” after an accident.
They think time, rest, or a little ibuprofen will fix it.
Here’s the truth:
Soft tissue injuries heal incorrectly when they’re not addressed.
That means stiffness becomes your new normal, mobility stays limited, and simple daily tasks start to feel harder than they should.
Chiropractic care helps restore alignment, improve mobility, calm inflammation, and actually support proper healing, not just mask symptoms.
What to Expect at Your Evaluation
When you come into our office, we’ll walk you through a full accident evaluation including:
Exam of the neck, spine, and supporting tissues
Range of motion assessment
Customized treatment plan based on your injury
Most patients tell me the same thing after their first visit:
“I had no idea how much tension I was holding until you released it.”
And because Florida is a no fault state, your auto insurance typically covers your care, even if the accident was your fault.
Just remember: you must be seen within 14 days of the accident to qualify for your benefits.
You Don’t Need to Live With Pain After an Accident
If your neck feels tight, stiff, or just “off,” listen to your body.
You deserve to heal fully, not just cope.
👉 Ready to feel and function better again?
Schedule your accident evaluation today.
We’ll take it from here.