Car Accidents and Concussions: What You Need to Know

Concussions are one of the most overlooked injuries following a car accident. Many people assume that unless they hit their head or lose consciousness, there’s no cause for concern. But in reality, even a minor auto collision can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI) like a concussion—and failing to treat it properly can have long-lasting consequences.

In this post, we’ll explain how concussions happen in car accidents, what symptoms to watch for, and why prompt diagnosis and treatment are so important. We’ll also cover how chiropractic care in Kansas City can support your recovery and help prevent long-term complications.

Can You Get a Concussion from a Car Accident?

Yes—even low-speed crashes can cause a concussion, especially if your head or neck is violently jerked or jolted. You don’t need to hit your head on the steering wheel, dashboard, or window to suffer a concussion. The rapid acceleration and deceleration forces in a collision can cause the brain to move inside the skull, damaging brain tissue and triggering symptoms.

Common types of crashes that lead to concussions:

• Rear-end collisions

• Side-impact (T-bone) crashes

• Rollovers

• Head-on collisions

These accidents often cause whiplash, which can also contribute to head injury and neurological symptoms.

Symptoms of a Concussion After a Car Accident

Concussion symptoms don’t always show up immediately. It may take hours or days after the accident for the signs to appear. Common symptoms include:

• Headache or pressure in the head

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Nausea or vomiting

• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light

• Difficulty concentrating or confusion

• Mood changes, irritability, or anxiety

• Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)

• Memory loss surrounding the accident

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms after a car crash in Kansas City, you may have suffered a concussion—even if you didn’t lose consciousness.

The Risks of Leaving a Concussion Untreated

Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries, but that doesn’t mean they should be taken lightly. Left untreated, a concussion can result in:

• Persistent post-concussion syndrome

• Chronic headaches and migraines

• Difficulty focusing or working

• Emotional and psychological issues

• Long-term cognitive impairment

Some individuals also suffer from second impact syndrome, where another head injury occurs before the first one has healed. This can lead to dangerous and potentially fatal brain swelling.

How Concussions Are Diagnosed

If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s critical to get checked out by a provider who understands trauma-related brain injuries. Diagnosis may include:

• Neurological examination

• Balance and coordination tests

• Memory and cognitive assessments

• Imaging (CT or MRI in severe cases)

• Review of accident details and symptoms

At our Kansas City clinic, we offer thorough evaluations for patients experiencing post-accident symptoms and refer out for advanced imaging or neuro testing when appropriate.

Chiropractic Care and Post-Concussion Recovery

You might not associate chiropractic care with concussions—but it can play a valuable role in your recovery. Chiropractors focus on the nervous system, spine, and musculoskeletal health, which are all commonly affected by concussions and car accidents.

Chiropractic treatment can help:

• Relieve neck and upper back tension caused by whiplash

• Improve blood flow to the brain, promoting healing

• Support balance, posture, and mobility

• Reduce inflammation in the cervical spine

• Relieve headaches and migraines through spinal adjustments

• Enhance neurological function and nervous system regulation

By addressing spinal misalignments and soft tissue injury, chiropractic care can reduce concussion-related symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

What to Do If You Think You Have a Concussion

If you were recently in a car accident—no matter how minor—and now feel “off,” dizzy, foggy, or unusually tired, don’t ignore the signs. Follow these steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately.

2. Avoid screen time, loud noises, and bright lights during recovery.

3. Rest and limit activity, especially physical or mentally demanding tasks.

4. Monitor symptoms closely and document any changes.

5. Schedule a visit with a chiropractor trained in personal injury and neurological care.

Why Kansas City Trusts Lance Stevenson, DC

At our clinic, we specialize in helping car accident victims recover fully—not just from physical injuries like whiplash or back pain, but also from concussions and neurological trauma. We offer:

• Free consultations

• No out-of-pocket costs if you qualify

• Thorough injury documentation for insurance and legal claims

• A full post-accident care plan tailored to your needs

We coordinate with personal injury attorneys and medical professionals to ensure you get the care—and the compensation—you deserve.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing signs of a concussion or other injury, don’t wait. Call Lance Stevenson, DC today at 816-226-7476 to schedule your evaluation.

Even if your symptoms seem minor, early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in your recovery. We’re here to help you heal, regain your health, and move forward with confidence.

Been in an Accident? Start Here.

Call us today for a free consultation or with any questions.

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