Top 5 Most Common Injuries After a Car Accident – and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

In a busy area like Mountain View, where traffic from highways, tech campuses, and residential neighborhoods converges, car accidents can happen when you least expect them. Even a minor collision can result in injuries that affect your daily life - sometimes without showing symptoms right away. Understanding the most common injuries can help you recognize symptoms early and seek the right care.
 

1. Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries from rear-end collisions. It occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted back and forth, straining the muscles, ligaments, and cervical spine. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even blurred vision. Chiropractic care addresses whiplash by restoring proper spinal alignment and improving range of motion through targeted adjustments and soft tissue therapy.
 

2. Back Pain and Spinal Injuries

The force of a crash can cause herniated discs, spinal misalignments, and lower back pain. These injuries can lead to nerve compression and radiating pain into the legs or arms. Dr. Riley can identify misalignments and use spinal manipulations and corrective exercises to relieve pressure, reduce inflammation, and promote healing without the need for invasive procedures.
 

3. Headaches and Migraines

Post-accident headaches are often the result of neck tension, concussion, or pinched nerves. Chiropractic care helps relieve tension and restore proper nerve function by correcting spinal misalignments, especially in the cervical spine. This can lead to a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines.
 

4. Shoulder Injuries

Seat belts are essential for safety, but the restraint can also lead to shoulder strain or rotator cuff injuries during impact. Chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic modalities, and range-of-motion exercises can reduce inflammation and restore function in the shoulder joint, speeding up recovery.
 

5. Soft Tissue Injuries

Bruising, sprains, and strains in muscles and ligaments are common after a crash. These injuries often go unnoticed at first but can lead to chronic pain if untreated. Dr. Riley uses techniques such as myofascial release, laser therapy, and rehabilitative exercises to improve circulation, decrease swelling, and enhance soft tissue healing.
 

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Auto accident injuries often go undetected until symptoms interfere with your daily life. Whether you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, seeking chiropractic care early can make a significant difference in your recovery and long-term well-being.

If you’ve been in a car accident, contact Kathryn C. Riley, DC, to schedule a chiropractic evaluation and start your path to lasting relief. Contact our office in Mountain View, California, by calling (650) 969-4500 to book an appointment today.