Dealing With Chronic Pain After Car Accident

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After a car accident, the body goes through a lot. Depending on how you were hit, you could be suffering from whiplash, broken bones, head trauma, or internal injuries. All of these injuries can be painful, and sometimes the pain may not go away after a few days or even a few weeks. You may be dealing with chronic pain that lasts many months, years, or even the rest of your life.

Chronic pain typically lasts at least three months. Unfortunately, many people are dealing with chronic pain: 60 million people across the world.

A person experiences chronic pain when the nervous system is inflamed or damaged. Chronic pain may affect a small area or it could be widespread. It is persistent and hurts regularly.

Some car accident injuries that may cause chronic pain include:

  • Back and spinal cord injuries.
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI).
  • Bone fractures.
  • Shoulder injuries.

Ways to Manage Pain

  • Seek medical care immediately. Even if you feel okay, get evaluated by a medical professional. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries have delayed symptoms. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes.
  • Use ice and heat therapy. Ice reduces inflammation and swelling. Apply 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times daily until swelling subsides. Then apply what to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow.
  • Take medications as directed. Do not self-medicate. Ask your doctor what medications to take and get a prescription, if possible. Common pain-relief options include:
    • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.
    • Muscle relaxers.
    • Prescription pain medication.
  • Stay active. Prolonged bed rest can increase stiffness. Gentle movement, such as light walking and stretching, helps:
    • Reduce muscle tightness.
    • Improve circulation.
    • Speed recovery.
  • Try physical therapy. Physical therapy helps:
    • Restore strength.
    • Improve flexibility.
    • Reduce chronic pain.
  • Consider alternative therapies. Ask your doctor if any of the following may be helpful:
    • Massage therapy
    • Chiropractic care
    • Acupuncture

You should also address emotional and psychological pain. Car accidents can cause anxiety and depression and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in severe accidents. Counseling or therapy can help manage emotional trauma and reduce its impact on physical pain.

Sleep and proper nutrition are also important. Quality sleep supports healing. Hydration reduces inflammation, while balanced nutrition promotes tissue repair.

It is also a good idea to document your pain and symptoms. This is especially helpful for insurance claim purposes but can be useful to your doctor as well. Keep a daily journal of:

  • Pain levels.
  • Mobility limitations.
  • Medication use.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

The human body is not designed to withstand the effects of a car accident. A person can suffer pain for months or years following a crash.

In these situations, it is crucial that you get the treatment you need to live a more comfortable life. Get the help you need from Sue West, a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We will determine fault and account for all your physical and emotional damages so you get the most compensation possible. Fill out the online form or call (281) 347-3247 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

clearwaypain.com/how-to-relieve-chronic-pain-after-a-car-accident/

By The West Law Office | Posted on February 23, 2026