Neck & Back Pain After a Car Accident in Dallas
A collision doesn't just jolt your neck — it sends force through your entire spine. Even a low-speed accident can strain muscles, irritate joints, and damage the discs that cushion your vertebrae, leaving you with neck pain, back pain, or both. At Action Chiropractic in Dallas, Dr. Corey Skinner treats the full range of spinal injuries that car accidents cause, drawing on post-doctoral training in injury and trauma care.
Why Car Accidents Cause Neck and Back Pain
In a crash, your body is thrown in one direction and snapped back in another, all in a fraction of a second. Your spine absorbs much of that energy. The result can be overstretched or torn muscles and ligaments, misaligned vertebrae, inflamed facet joints, and pressure on the discs and nerves. Because seat belts and bracing concentrate force in specific areas, it's common to feel it in the neck and the lower back at the same time.
Common Injuries We See After a Crash
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Neck pain and whiplash — the most common accident injury, from the rapid snap of the head and neck. Read more about whiplash treatment → CLICK HERE
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Lower back pain — strained muscles, irritated joints, or aggravated discs in the lumbar spine.
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Mid and upper back pain — often from the impact of the seat belt and the twisting of the torso.
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Disc injuries — bulging or herniated discs that can press on nerves and cause radiating pain.
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Sciatica-type pain — burning, tingling, or numbness traveling down the leg when a nerve is irritated.
Symptoms Can Show Up Days Later
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is assuming they're fine because nothing hurts at the scene. Adrenaline and inflammation can mask spinal injuries for hours or even days. By the time the stiffness, aching, or shooting pain sets in, the injury has often had time to worsen — which is why a prompt evaluation is so important, even if you feel okay.
How Dr. Skinner Treats Accident-Related Spinal Pain
Treatment begins with a detailed exam to pinpoint which structures are involved, with imaging or specialist referrals when warranted. From there, Dr. Skinner tailors a plan to your specific injuries — which may include chiropractic adjustments to restore alignment and motion, spinal decompression for disc-related pain, soft-tissue and muscle therapy, and progressive rehabilitation to rebuild strength. The care is conservative and all-natural — no drugs, no surgery — and thoroughly documented from your first visit, which matters for both your recovery and any claim. See our full auto injury care → CLICK HERE
Don't Wait to Get Evaluated
Untreated spinal injuries can become chronic, lingering for months or years. Early care gives you the best shot at a full recovery and the clearest documentation. In Texas, many patients pay nothing out of pocket. See how to pay for car accident care → CLICK HERE
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​If you have neck or back pain after a crash anywhere in the Dallas area, call Action Chiropractic at (214) 821-9999 or request an appointment online.
We're located at 5400 E. Mockingbird Ln., Ste. 214, Dallas, TX 75206.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my back hurt after a car accident, even though it was a minor one?
Even low-speed collisions transfer significant force through the spine. Muscles, joints, and discs can be injured without much visible damage to your vehicle, and the pain often appears a day or two later.
How long does back pain last after a car accident?
It depends on the injury. Muscle strains may ease within weeks, while disc or joint injuries can take longer. Starting care early generally speeds recovery and reduces the risk of chronic pain.
Should I see a chiropractor or a regular doctor for back pain after a crash?
Both have a role. Dr. Skinner evaluates accident-related spinal injuries and treats them conservatively, and he coordinates with a referral network of medical specialists when your case calls for additional care.
Can a car accident cause a herniated disc?
Yes. The sudden force of a collision can bulge or herniate a disc, which may press on a nerve and cause radiating pain, numbness, or tingling. A proper exam can determine whether a disc is involved.
Will insurance cover treatment for my accident injuries?
Often, yes — through PIP, MedPay, or the at-fault driver's liability coverage, and many patients pay nothing out of pocket. We'll explain your options before treatment starts.