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

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.

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