Why Imaging Is So Important After a Car Crash for Whiplash and Concussion

When you're involved in a car accident—whether it’s a minor fender bender or a high-speed collision—the damage to your body often goes far deeper than what you can feel immediately. Two of the most common yet overlooked injuries are whiplash and concussion. These injuries often present with vague symptoms like headaches, dizziness, neck stiffness, or brain fog. That’s why diagnostic imaging is not just helpful—it's critical.

Lance Stevenson, DC

6/29/20252 min read

What Is Whiplash and Why You Might Not Feel It Right Away

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury to the neck caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, often from rear-end collisions. You may not feel much pain immediately due to the adrenaline rush, but symptoms like:

  • Neck pain and stiffness

  • Loss of range of motion

  • Shoulder or upper back pain

  • Headaches at the base of the skull

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms

…can develop hours or even days later.

Without proper imaging, the severity and full extent of these injuries can be missed.

Concussions: Invisible Yet Serious Brain Injuries

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur even in low-speed car crashes. Symptoms may include:

  • Confusion or disorientation

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Sensitivity to light and sound

  • Dizziness or balance issues

  • Delayed reaction time

  • Memory problems

Because concussions don’t show up on standard X-rays, specialized imaging can help rule out more serious issues such as bleeds, edema, or structural trauma to the brain and skull.

The Types of Imaging That Matter After a Crash

Here’s how imaging helps guide your diagnosis and treatment:

🩻 X-rays

  • Useful for detecting fractures, misalignments, or joint instability in the spine

  • Can show reduced disc space or facet joint injury from whiplash

💻 MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

  • Best for soft tissue damage, including ligaments, discs, muscles, and brain structures

  • Ideal for assessing concussion-related inflammation or microbleeds not visible on other scans

🌀 CT Scan

  • Excellent for detecting acute trauma in the brain or spine

  • Used in emergency settings to rule out skull fractures or internal bleeding

🎯 Functional Imaging or Neurocognitive Testing

  • May be used alongside imaging to measure brain function, especially in post-concussion syndrome

Why Imaging Early On Matters

  1. Identifies Hidden Injuries: Many whiplash and concussion injuries are internal and don’t appear with bruises or swelling.

  2. Supports Legal Claims: Imaging provides objective evidence that’s essential in personal injury cases.

  3. Guides Treatment Plans: Knowing exactly what structures are involved helps create a more effective rehab plan.

  4. Prevents Long-Term Issues: Early diagnosis reduces the risk of chronic pain, balance issues, or cognitive impairment.

How Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC Uses Imaging to Help Auto Injury Patients

At my Kansas City clinic, I refer patients for high-quality diagnostic imaging when indicated, especially if you’re suffering from:

  • Neck or back pain

  • Headaches or migraines

  • Concussion symptoms

  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness

  • Balance or visual changes

I then use those images to pinpoint the injured areas, design your rehab protocol, and document findings for insurance claims or legal support. My clinic is a one-stop-shop for car crash recovery—we coordinate imaging, rehab, documentation, and referrals.

Why Choose Me for Post-Accident Care?

I’m Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC, a personal injury chiropractor who specializes in auto accident injuries. Unlike most general practitioners or ER doctors, I understand the biomechanics of trauma, and I treat the root causes of your pain—not just the symptoms.

I work directly with your attorney, handle insurance questions, and help you understand the process every step of the way.

Call Today for a Free Consultation

Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. If you’ve been in a car crash in Kansas City, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Shawnee, Liberty, or Raytown, call now.

📞 816-226-7476 — Schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC. Let’s get you the care you deserve and the answers you need.

Been in an Accident? Start Here.

Call us today for a free consultation or with any questions.
Expert Personal Injury Care

If You Were NOT At-Fault in the Accident, You Should Have NO Out-of-Pocket Costs!