It is a common misconception that if you do not feel pain immediately after a car accident, you are not injured. However, many serious injuries can have delayed symptoms that may not appear for hours, days, or even weeks after the collision. This is because the body’s initial response to trauma is to release adrenaline, which can mask pain and other symptoms.
“Swelling and inflammation, for instance, may not be noticeable for some time after the accident, even though the underlying damage is there from the beginning.” [3]
Research has shown that persistent symptoms occur in 25-40% of patients one year after a whiplash injury, with some studies reporting symptoms as far as seven years post-accident [6]. Factors associated with delayed recovery include female gender, older age, initial intensity of neck pain, neurologic deficit, and preexisting neck pain [6].
This is why seeking a medical evaluation as soon as possible after a car accident is critical, even if you feel fine. A healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, can perform a thorough examination to identify any underlying injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
