Car accidents are jarring — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Even if it was just a fender bender, your body can still take a hit, especially your neck.
If you’re feeling stiff, sore, or limited in movement after a crash, you’re not imagining it — and you’re not alone.
Neck stiffness is one of the most common complaints after a car accident, and it may appear hours, days, or even weeks after the incident. The good news? You don’t have to live with it. A pain management specialist can help you figure out what’s going on and create a treatment plan that actually works.
Even at low speeds, a sudden jolt can throw your body around and cause injury. Your neck is especially vulnerable because it’s flexible and supports the weight of your head.
When you’re in a crash, your neck can whip forward and backward or side to side — something we call whiplash.
That quick motion can strain or damage muscles, ligaments, discs, or nerves in the neck. You might not feel the full effects right away thanks to adrenaline, but once it wears off, stiffness and discomfort tend to set in.
Common symptoms of post-accident neck injury include:
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to get checked out.
If your neck stiffness doesn’t improve within a few days (or if it’s getting worse), it’s a smart move to make an appointment with Dr. Wu. Even if you have already gone to emergency or urgent care after the accident, lingering or increasing pain deserves a closer look.
We are trained to treat both acute injuries (like those caused by accidents) and chronic pain that sticks around longer than expected. Our team evaluates your symptoms, recommends imaging tests such as an MRI or X-ray (if necessary), and helps pinpoint the exact cause of your pain.
Getting treatment early can make a big difference in your recovery and help you avoid long-term issues.
Pain management isn’t just about covering up symptoms — it’s about healing, restoring function, and improving quality of life. Depending on the severity of your injury and how long it’s been since the accident, we may recommend a mix of the following.
In mild cases, rest, bracing, and other conservative methods can reduce discomfort and promote long-term healing.
Targeted exercises and stretches can restore range of motion, reduce inflammation, and rebuild strength. A physical therapist can also teach you ways to move that prevent further strain.
If muscle spasms or nerve irritation are causing your pain, injections may offer quick relief. These are often used alongside physical therapy for more effective results.
If traditional treatments aren’t working, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may help stimulate healing by using your body’s own growth factors.
Spinal cord stimulation uses electric currents to disrupt pain signals to your brain and alleviate pain. Radiofrequency ablation uses targeted heat energy to eliminate misfiring nerves, thereby quickly reducing neck pain and discomfort.
It’s easy to downplay neck stiffness after a car accident, especially if it doesn’t feel unbearable. But ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even post-traumatic stress if your quality of life continues to suffer.
Addressing the issue early can help you:
Neck stiffness after a car accident is common, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Whether it’s mild discomfort or something more severe, we can help you get to the root of the problem and start feeling better sooner rather than later.
If you’ve been in an accident and your neck just isn’t right, don’t wait it out. Call our friendly staff or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation today.
