Headache Treatment · Swansea, Illinois · Metro East
Headache after a car accident — chiropractor in Metro East Illinois
Post-traumatic headaches after a car accident are a common and serious symptom that should be evaluated promptly. Metro East Injury Centers treats headaches from auto accidents and personal injury events in Swansea, IL. Lien-based care available for qualifying cases.
Headaches after a car accident — what causes them
Post-traumatic headaches are one of the most common symptoms following a motor vehicle accident. They are typically caused by cervical soft tissue injury — the same whiplash mechanism that affects the muscles, ligaments, and discs of the neck. Headaches can also result from concussion, tension from muscle spasm, or cervicogenic causes originating in the upper cervical spine.
Post-traumatic headaches often develop in the hours or days following a collision — not necessarily at the moment of impact. If you are experiencing headaches after a car accident, early evaluation is important for both your health and your injury claim documentation.
Cervicogenic headache
Originating from the upper cervical spine — pain that starts at the base of the skull and radiates forward. Highly responsive to chiropractic care targeting the cervical joints.
Tension headache
Caused by sustained muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back following injury. Soft tissue therapy and chiropractic care directly address the underlying muscle dysfunction.
Post-concussion headache
Headaches associated with concussion symptoms — requiring thorough evaluation and documentation. If you experienced a blow to the head or loss of consciousness, tell us at your first visit.
How we treat post-traumatic headaches
Treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the structural and soft tissue causes of the headache — not just managing symptoms. Dr. Brunkhorst evaluates the cervical spine, surrounding musculature, and neurological involvement to build a targeted care plan.
Cervical chiropractic adjustment
Targets the upper cervical joints most commonly involved in cervicogenic and post-traumatic headache — restores proper motion and reduces nerve irritation.
Soft tissue therapy
Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization to the suboccipital, cervical, and upper trapezius muscles that contribute to post-traumatic tension headache patterns.
Class 4 laser therapy
Reduces cervical inflammation and promotes soft tissue healing — effective for the underlying cervical injury driving post-traumatic headache symptoms.
Thorough documentation
Clinical records that accurately capture your headache symptoms, their onset, and their relationship to the accident — essential for your injury claim.
Injured in a car accident? We work on a lien for qualifying auto accident cases — your care is billed through your injury claim. Most patients pay $0 out of pocket. Call (618) 235-1500 to schedule your evaluation.
Headaches after an accident? Call us today.
Metro East Injury Centers · 11 Executive Woods Court, Swansea, Illinois 62226 · Serving Metro East Illinois · Lien-based care for qualifying auto accident cases