Even a low-speed collision on Ashworth Road or I-235 can leave your body in more trouble than your bumper. Your neck, back, and shoulders absorb forces they were never built to handle, and the damage is not always visible on the day of the crash.
At West Des Moines Chiropractic, Dr. Caleb Sneller provides focused injury care for people dealing with auto accident injuries. This page explains what a crash does to the body, which injuries are most common, and how to choose between the ER room, urgent care, and a chiropractor, so you can take the right next step.
In a collision, your vehicle stops almost instantly while your body keeps moving until the seat belt and seat catch it. Your head and neck snap, your spine compresses and twists, and muscles and ligaments stretch past their normal limits.
That is why symptoms can arrive late. According to MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, whiplash pain may take anywhere from hours to weeks to develop. Feeling fine at the scene does not mean you escaped injury.
Neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and aching in the shoulders or jaw are classic signs. Whiplash is a soft tissue injury, which means the muscles and ligaments that support your neck have been overstretched or strained.
The discs in your spine act as cushions between the vertebrae. A herniated disc happens when the soft center of a disc pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer, and Mayo Clinic explains that it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg depending on its location. Pain that travels, tingles, or comes with weakness deserves a prompt exam.
Lower back pain after a collision may come from strained muscles, irritated joints, or a disc problem. Sitting, bending, or getting out of bed may hurt more than usual.
Sprains and strains in the neck, back, hips, and shoulders are among the most frequent auto injuries. They can linger as tightness, knots, or a “pulled” feeling that does not go away on its own.
Headaches that begin after an accident often trace back to neck tension and restricted movement in the upper spine.
It helps to know what each option is for.
Many patients visit the ER first, get cleared of emergencies, and still go home with a stiff neck or aching back. That is where follow-up care matters. Being told “nothing is broken” is good news, but it is not the same as being recovered. If you were seen in the ER and your pain is still limiting your day, a chiropractic evaluation is a sensible next step.
Because so many crash injuries involve muscles, ligaments, and tendons, hands-on soft tissue therapy is often a key part of care. It is used to ease muscle guarding, reduce tightness, and improve the way tissue glides and moves. Combined with chiropractic adjustments when appropriate, it can help restore normal motion more comfortably.
Depending on your exam, Dr. Sneller may also recommend other options such as spinal decompression or laser light therapy. Every plan is built around your findings, your comfort level, and your goals.
Recovery usually follows a pattern. First, we work to calm pain and irritation. Next, we restore motion in stiff or restricted areas. Finally, we help you build back the strength and movement habits that support day-to-day life, whether that means sitting at a desk, lifting a toddler, or getting back to your sport.
You will always know what we found, what we recommend, and why. If your symptoms point to something that needs imaging or a different specialist, we will refer you promptly.
Many people search for a PIP chiropractor because they want to know how their care will be paid for. PIP is common in no-fault states, but Iowa drivers often rely on other sources, such as their own health insurance, optional medical payments coverage on an auto policy, or the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Coverage varies from policy to policy, so the best first step is to look at your own policy or ask your agent. Our front desk team is happy to talk through how billing works at our clinic so there are no surprises.
There is no single timeline. Recovery depends on the type of injury, how severe it is, your age, your activity level, and whether you get care early. Some people feel noticeably better within a few weeks. Others, especially those with disc involvement or injuries that went untreated, need more time. After your exam, Dr. Sneller will give you an honest outlook for your situation.
Yes, it is common. Inflammation and muscle guarding often build over the first couple of days. Worsening pain, numbness, or weakness should be taken seriously and evaluated quickly.
Absolutely. The ER focuses on ruling out emergencies. A chiropractor can help with the lingering neck, back, and joint problems that come afterward. Bring any discharge paperwork you received.
Whiplash describes the specific injury pattern caused by rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck. A neck strain is a more general term for overstretched muscles. Your exam helps sort out which applies to you.
You may feel pressure, and tender areas can be sensitive at first. Your provider adjusts the pressure to what is comfortable and productive for you.
Not always. If your history or exam suggests that imaging would change your care, we will coordinate it.
Bring your insurance information, any ER or urgent care paperwork, and a list of your symptoms and medications.
Call West Des Moines Chiropractic at (515) 267-1600 or email frontdesk@westdsmchiropractic.com to schedule your car accident injury evaluation.
West Des Moines Chiropractic
5907 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50266
