Could You Have a Concussion After a Car Accident and Not Know It?

Car accidents can be disorienting, and sometimes the injuries they cause aren't immediately obvious. One of the most commonly overlooked injuries after a crash is a concussion. Many Kansas City drivers walk away from a collision thinking they're fine, only to realize days or weeks later that something doesn’t feel right. If you’re feeling foggy, irritable, or just “off” after a wreck, you could be suffering from a delayed concussion.

In this article, we’ll explain why concussions often go undiagnosed after auto accidents, what symptoms to look out for, and why it’s essential to get evaluated by a personal injury chiropractor like Lance Stevenson, DC.

Why Concussions Are Commonly Missed After Auto Accidents

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when your brain is shaken inside your skull. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to hit your head to get a concussion. The whiplash-like motion of your head and neck snapping forward and backward during a crash is often enough to cause one.

Here’s why concussions often go undiagnosed:

• Symptoms are delayed – You may feel fine immediately after the accident due to adrenaline, but symptoms can take hours or days to appear.

• No visible injury – There’s usually no bruising or bleeding, which leads many to dismiss it.

• Misattribution of symptoms – Dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or irritability are often blamed on stress or lack of sleep instead of brain trauma.

• Lack of immediate medical evaluation – Some people skip getting checked out if they don’t feel pain right away.

If you’ve been in a car accident in Kansas City, do not assume you’re uninjured just because you don’t feel pain right away.

Delayed Symptoms of a Concussion to Watch For

Concussion symptoms aren’t always dramatic. They can be subtle, change over time, and vary between individuals. Watch for:

• Brain fog or confusion

• Headaches or pressure in your head

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Nausea or dizziness

• Changes in mood or behavior

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things

• Fatigue or lack of energy

Even one or two of these symptoms can indicate a concussion, especially when they follow a car accident.

What Happens If a Concussion Goes Untreated?

Ignoring a concussion can have serious, long-lasting effects on your health. This is especially true for those who continue working, driving, or exercising without rest. Possible consequences include:

• Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) – Symptoms like headaches, mood swings, and cognitive fog can last for months or even years.

• Chronic headaches and migraines

• Impaired memory and concentration

• Ongoing dizziness and balance problems

• Heightened risk of future brain injuries

That’s why it’s so important to get evaluated right away if you think you might have a concussion. In many cases, early intervention can prevent chronic problems.

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Concussion Recovery

You may think chiropractic care only treats back or neck pain, but chiropractors play a crucial role in concussion recovery, especially when the injury involves whiplash or cervical spine trauma.

At our Kansas City clinic, Lance Stevenson, DC offers care that supports the nervous system and helps the body heal naturally. We focus on:

• Realigning the cervical spine to reduce pressure on nerves and improve blood flow to the brain

• Relieving tension in the neck, upper back, and shoulders

• Reducing inflammation that may be contributing to symptoms

• Supporting neurological function through targeted adjustments and rehab

• Helping with balance, coordination, and mental clarity

When combined with rest and cognitive support, chiropractic treatment can help patients recover more quickly and fully from a post-accident concussion.

What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion After a Crash

If you’ve been in a car accident in or around Kansas City and you’re experiencing ANY unusual symptoms—even days later—follow these steps:

1. Stop trying to “push through” it. Your brain needs time and support to heal.

2. Schedule an evaluation with a healthcare provider who understands personal injury trauma, including chiropractic care.

3. Document your symptoms and the timeline since your accident. This can help with both treatment and any legal or insurance claims.

4. Avoid high-stimulation environments like screens, loud music, or bright lights while you recover.

5. Rest—but don’t isolate. Recovery often includes gentle activity and mental support.

Get Evaluated by Kansas City’s Leading Personal Injury Chiropractor

Dr. Lance Stevenson specializes in treating auto accident injuries—including concussions that may be linked to whiplash and spinal misalignment. When you visit our clinic, we’ll:

• Perform a full physical and neurological evaluation

• Check for signs of concussion and spinal trauma

• Provide or refer for additional imaging if needed

• Build a personalized care plan tailored to your recovery

• Assist with insurance paperwork and attorney referrals if necessary

We offer free consultations and no out-of-pocket cost if you qualify, making it easier than ever to get the care you need after a crash.

Call Now to Protect Your Health and Future

Don't wait for symptoms to get worse. If you've been in a car accident—even a minor one—and you suspect a concussion, call Lance Stevenson, DC at 816-226-7476 today.

Early care can make all the difference. Let us help you heal safely, avoid long-term issues, and get your life back on track.

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