Why a crash causes headaches
Headaches are one of the most common after-effects of a car accident, and they usually come from one of a few sources. Many are cervicogenic — they start in an injured neck and refer pain up into the head. Others are tension headaches from muscle guarding, and some follow a concussion (a mild traumatic brain injury) even without hitting your head directly.
Like other crash injuries, these headaches are often delayed — appearing hours or a day or two after the accident, once the adrenaline wears off.
Symptoms we check for
General education — not a diagnosis. We evaluate first.
- Headache starting at the base of the skull or behind the eyes
- Headache paired with neck pain or stiffness
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Dizziness, brain-fog, or trouble concentrating
- Nausea or trouble sleeping since the crash
- Headaches that started within a few days of the accident
🛡️ Safety first: a headache after a crash can be a sign of a concussion. At your exam we screen for concussion and other red flags — and if we see signs that need medical or emergency care, we tell you and refer you right away. If you have a severe or worsening headache, repeated vomiting, confusion, slurred speech, weakness, or fainting, call 911 or go to the ER now.
Why a same-week exam matters
Beyond your health, the timing matters for your claim. Insurers and attorneys look at the gap between your crash and your first visit. A prompt exam documents the headache — when it started and how it behaves — while it's clearly connected to the accident.
We don't promise outcomes. We tell you what we see, in writing.
How we help with crash headaches
Every plan starts with an exam. When the headache is coming from the neck, we use the tools that fit:
- Gentle chiropractic adjustments to restore neck movement
- Soft-tissue work and therapeutic stretching for tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and moist heat to ease muscle tension
- At-home exercises and posture guidance to reduce flare-ups
- Coordination with — or referral to — medical providers when a concussion needs co-management
What this costs you
Most patients pay $0 at the visit. With active Minnesota no-fault (PIP), we verify benefits and bill your auto insurer directly. Working with an attorney? We bill on lien when appropriate. No coverage? We tell you a transparent number before you book.
Schedule your free consultation
Leave your name and number and we'll call to lock in your free consultation during business hours (Mon–Fri 9a–12p & 2–6p). After hours, we follow up the next morning. Your information stays with the clinic.
⏱ Typical response time during business hours: 1–2 hours. In a hurry? Call (651) 202-3178 directly.