Headaches & Concussion after a car accident
Headaches and Concussion Symptoms After a Car Accident.
Post-crash headaches usually have a structural cause — and many "minor" head impacts are missed concussions. Both deserve thorough evaluation, not a shrug.
Two patterns we see often
Cervicogenic headache. Pain originates from the upper cervical spine and refers up into the head. Typically starts at the base of the skull and may wrap toward the temples or eye. Strongly correlated with whiplash and other neck injuries.
Post-concussion symptoms. Mild traumatic brain injury can occur without losing consciousness. Symptoms — headache, fogginess, light or sound sensitivity, fatigue, sleep disruption, irritability — may build over days. Many ER visits clear patients without the deeper screening these symptoms warrant.
Symptoms typically include:
- Headache, often worse with exertion
- Cognitive fog or difficulty concentrating
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Mood changes, irritability
- Balance issues, motion sensitivity
Why this isn't "just a headache"
Persistent post-accident headaches are a clinical signal, not a nuisance to push through. They can indicate cervical spine dysfunction that's worsening over time, vestibular involvement, or unresolved concussion. Each of those benefits from early identification.
How we evaluate it
Your initial visit includes:
- Detailed history of the accident and symptom onset/progression
- Upper cervical exam for joint restriction and trigger points
- Cranial nerve and balance screening
- Cognitive screening if concussion is suspected
- Imaging when indicated; referral to neurology for cases requiring further workup
How we treat it
Treatment differs by underlying cause:
- Upper cervical adjustments — for cervicogenic headache
- Suboccipital soft-tissue release — to address muscular contributions
- Vestibular and oculomotor rehabilitation — for post-concussion symptoms
- Activity pacing and graded return-to-function — with neurology coordination when warranted
What recovery typically looks like
Cervicogenic headaches often respond within 4–8 weeks. Post-concussion recovery is more variable and depends on injury severity, prior history, and adherence to the rehabilitation program.
PIP coverage
Headaches & Concussion treatment is covered by your Texas PIP.
We bill your auto insurer directly. You pay $0 out of pocket.
Don't wait — headaches & concussion responds best to early treatment.
Call us to verify your PIP and book your exam this week.