Common Car Accident Injuries and How to Treat Them in Kansas City
Car accidents can affect your body in many ways, from minor aches to chronic pain that lasts for years. Even minor accidents can lead to soft tissue injuries, whiplash, headaches, and more. It's essential to understand what’s normal and seek the right care.
Lance Stevenson, DC
5/25/20253 min read


Understanding Common Injuries from Car Accidents
After a car crash, even if you feel fine initially, it’s vital to monitor your body for any new pain, discomfort, or changes. Here are some of the most common injuries that occur after a motor vehicle accident in Kansas City:
Whiplash
One of the most frequent injuries after a rear-end collision, whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly forced forward and then snapped backward. This results in soft tissue damage, affecting muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Whiplash symptoms might not show up immediately, but it can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and difficulty moving your head.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains, are common in any car accident. The impact of a crash puts stress on muscles, ligaments, and tendons, causing tears or overstretching. These injuries are often felt as pain or stiffness in the back, neck, shoulders, or legs.
Headaches and Migraines
Headaches are another frequent symptom after a motor vehicle accident, and they may develop hours or even days after the crash. These headaches are often caused by neck or shoulder tension, which can be a result of soft tissue injury. In some cases, headaches can signal a concussion or more severe brain injury.
Neck, Back, and Shoulder Pain
These are the most noticeable symptoms following a car accident. If the pain radiates down your arms or legs, it could indicate nerve damage or spinal misalignment. In more severe cases, the pain may point to broken bones, herniated discs, or severe soft tissue injuries.
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
While not always immediately recognized, concussions are a significant concern after car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions. Symptoms of a concussion may include dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory issues, and should be checked by a healthcare professional right away.
The Importance of Early Intervention and Chiropractic Care
It’s essential not to dismiss even minor aches and pains after a car accident. Many injuries, like whiplash and soft tissue damage, can worsen if left untreated. Seeking chiropractic care immediately after an accident can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications and ensure a quicker recovery.
A chiropractor, like Dr. Lance Stevenson, specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries caused by car accidents. Chiropractors focus on spinal health, and their treatments can help realign the spine, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. This non-invasive, drug-free approach can be incredibly effective for treating whiplash, back pain, neck pain, and more.
Why See a Chiropractor After a Car Accident?
Pain Relief Without Medication: Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free alternative for managing pain.
Restoring Mobility: Chiropractic adjustments can help restore joint movement and prevent long-term stiffness or weakness.
Preventing Chronic Pain: If left untreated, injuries like whiplash and muscle strains can lead to chronic pain, affecting your daily life for years. Early chiropractic care helps prevent this.
Addressing the Root Cause of Pain: Chiropractors identify the underlying cause of pain, whether it's misalignment of the spine, herniated discs, or muscle damage, and treat it directly.
The Healing Process: What to Expect
The recovery time after a car accident can vary widely, depending on the severity of the injuries. Some people may feel better in a few weeks, while others may take months or even years to fully recover. Early chiropractic treatment can speed up the recovery process, reduce pain, and prevent long-term complications.
Chiropractors may use various treatments such as spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and rehabilitative exercises to help restore normal function. Regular check-ups with your chiropractor will help track progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
How Chiropractic Care Helps with Post-Accident Recovery in Kansas City
When seeking chiropractic care after a car accident, it’s important to find a chiropractor with experience in treating auto accident injuries. Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC, specializes in providing customized chiropractic care for accident victims in the Kansas City area, helping them recover from both minor and severe injuries.
At Lance Stevenson, DC, we offer personalized treatment plans that address your specific injuries and recovery goals. From soft tissue injuries like whiplash to more complex spinal misalignments, we are committed to providing you with the care you need to return to your normal routine as quickly as possible.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you've been in a car accident in Kansas City, don't wait for pain to become chronic. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can begin healing and prevent long-term pain and dysfunction. Contact Lance Stevenson, DC today to schedule your free consultation. Our office offers expert chiropractic care for car accident injuries, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
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Disclaimer: The content provided on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, legal, or insurance advice. While every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it should not be relied upon as the sole basis for decisions regarding your health, legal matters, or insurance claims. Please consult with your healthcare provider, attorney, insurance company, or other relevant professionals for personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation.
1010 Carondelet Dr., Suite 416
Kansas City, MO 64114