Whiplash and Neck Pain After a Crash

Quick answer: Car accidents are a common cause of neck pain, and whiplash is one of the injuries behind it. MedlinePlus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, describes whiplash as a soft tissue injury to the neck, also called a neck sprain or strain.

If your neck hurts after a crash in Midtown Manhattan, rule out an emergency first. Then get it checked.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis.

What is whiplash?

MedlinePlus describes whiplash as a soft tissue injury to the neck. It is also called a neck sprain or strain.

The soft tissues are the muscles, tendons and ligaments, as opposed to bone.

Why do car accidents cause neck pain?

MedlinePlus explains that any part of the neck can cause neck problems: the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments or nerves.

It lists falls and accidents, including car accidents, as a common cause of neck pain.

Where else can neck pain come from?

Neck pain is very common, and not all of it comes from an injury. MedlinePlus says pain may also come from the shoulder, jaw, head or upper arms.

It says muscle strain or tension is a frequent cause, usually from overuse such as sitting at a computer too long. Sleeping in an awkward position or overdoing it during exercise can strain the neck too.

That is one reason to tell your provider exactly when the pain started, and whether it began after the crash.

How is neck pain usually treated?

MedlinePlus says treatment depends on the cause. It may include:

Option named by MedlinePlus	What it is
Ice	Applying ice to the sore area
Pain relievers	Medicine to ease pain
Physical therapy	Guided exercise and movement care
Cervical collar	A collar that supports the neck
Surgery	Rarely needed, according to MedlinePlus

Many people also see a chiropractor for neck pain after a crash. Read what spinal manipulation can and can’t do for what federal research summaries say about it.

When is neck pain an emergency?

Get emergency care first. Call 911 or go to an emergency room for:

• A head injury or loss of consciousness.
• Confusion, or severe pain.
• Numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.
• Trouble breathing.
• Anything that is getting worse quickly.

Chiropractic care is not emergency care. Once an emergency has been ruled out, neck and back pain after a crash are common reasons people see a chiropractor.

What should you write down before your visit?

A short record makes your first visit more useful:

• The date and time of the crash, and where you were sitting.
• Whether you were hit from behind, the front or the side.
• When each symptom started, and whether it is better or worse.
• What makes it worse, such as turning your head, sitting or sleeping.
• Any medications you are taking, and any past neck or back problems.

Does the pain have to start right away?

Not always. People notice pain at different times after a crash, so it is worth writing down when each symptom began.

If pain or stiffness shows up a day or two later, that is still worth mentioning to a provider. Don’t wait for it to get worse.

What questions should you ask at your visit?

Bring your notes and ask:

• What do you think is causing the pain?
• What care do you recommend, and how often?
• What should I avoid doing at home or at work?
• What signs mean I should go to an emergency room?

Is all neck pain after a crash whiplash?

No. MedlinePlus says any part of the neck can cause neck problems, including the bones, joints and nerves, not only the soft tissues.

That is why an exam matters. Your provider can look at where the pain is, what makes it worse and how you move, before recommending care.

What deadlines should you know after a crash?

New York’s no-fault regulation sets written deadlines for telling your insurer about the accident and for claims for health services. Read the 30-day no-fault notice.

What else can help besides adjustments?

Some patients ask about other care offered at the office. See massage therapy as part of recovery and acupuncture for back and neck pain for what the research says.

Why choose Nexus Spinal Care for neck pain after a crash in Midtown Manhattan?

Nexus Spinal Care sees car accident patients at 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 741, in Midtown Manhattan. Visits are with Dr. Jean V. Laine, D.C., who speaks English, Creole, French and Spanish.

Dr. Laine examines you, hears what happened and explains the chiropractic care he recommends.

Call (302) 590-8218 or see how to reach the office. Tell us you were in a car accident so we can plan your first visit.