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Overview
A concussion after a car accident is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head. While some symptoms show up right away, others can appear hours or days later. Even a “mild” concussion can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Quick Facts About Concussions
Common Causes: Head impact, whiplash, rapid acceleration or deceleration
Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, confusion, light sensitivity
Treatments: Rest, gradual return to activity, chiropractic and rehabilitative care
Recovery Time: Days to months, depending on severity and treatment
Common Symptoms of Concussions After a Car Accident
Symptoms may be mild or severe, and they don’t always appear immediately:
Headaches or pressure in the head
Dizziness or balance problems
Nausea or vomiting
Memory or concentration difficulties
Light or noise sensitivity
Fatigue or feeling “foggy”
Delayed concussion symptoms can develop hours or even days after the crash, which is why early evaluation is critical.
What Causes Concussions in Car Accidents?
Concussions happen when the brain moves rapidly inside the skull due to sudden impact or acceleration. Common accident scenarios include:
Direct head strike against a steering wheel, window, or headrest
Whiplash severe enough to cause the brain to shift and hit the skull
Airbag deployment impact
Secondary blows from loose objects inside the vehicle
Even minor collisions can generate enough force to cause a concussion.
Effective Treatments for Concussions
While the brain needs time to heal, we focus on supporting recovery and reducing secondary issues like neck strain or headaches. Your care plan may include:
Rest and activity modification
Chiropractic Adjustments for related neck/back issues
Soft Tissue Therapy for tension relief
Guided Rehabilitation Exercises for balance and coordination
Gradual return-to-activity protocols
Recovery & Prevention
Most concussions heal with proper rest and care, but recovery can take weeks or months depending on severity. To support healing:
Avoid activities that risk another head injury
Follow return-to-activity guidelines from your provider
Get plenty of rest and hydration
Limit screen time if symptoms worsen with light or motion
Keep up with follow-up visits to monitor progress
Untreated concussions can lead to serious complications — always get evaluated after a crash if you suspect a head injury.
What our patients are saying
We’re proud to help people across Oklahoma City recover and feel their best after auto accidents. Here’s what real patients have to say about their experience at Accident Care Clinic.
Drastic Improvement After Each Visit
“My recovery was amazing—thank you for your skills, patience, and awesome staff!”
Kierra T.
The Go-To Chiropractor in OKC
“Great doctors, friendly staff, and Dr. Boggs is the one to see—highly recommend!”
Leslie T.
Exceptional Care That Truly Heals
“Dr. John’s personalized care helped me regain strength and mobility after my accident.”
Wilfried K.
Friendly and Informative After My Wreck
“Dr. Boggs and Dr. John were so helpful and kind—feeling better than ever!”
Brianna T.
Skeptical at First, But Now a Believer
“Dr. Boggs and his team eased my car accident pain—I’m so glad I trusted them.”
Gail D.
Unmatched Honesty and Care
“Dr. Boggs is the most honest and caring medical professional I’ve ever met.”
Chris C.
Felt Like a New Person
“Simple, easy, and amazing care—walked out feeling brand new!”
Ron M.
Fast, Friendly, and Effective
“Great staff, easy visits, and I feel much better after just a few appointments.”
Yomali R.
Attentive and Professional Team
“After my accident, they took great care of me—very kind and thorough staff.”
Karina R.
Caring Chiropractors That Listen
“Doctors genuinely care about your pain—great place for chiropractic help.”
Richy P.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concussions
Can a minor car accident cause a concussion?
Yes. Even without a direct head hit, sudden movement can cause the brain to shift inside the skull, leading to concussion.
Headaches, difficulty concentrating, and dizziness are common delayed symptoms.
What are three delayed symptoms of a concussion?
Recovery can take days to months depending on the severity and adherence to a treatment plan.
How long do concussions last after a car accident?
Yes. The rapid acceleration and deceleration of whiplash can cause brain movement that leads to concussion.