Accidents and Injuries
Why problems can linger after an injury
After an injury, the body often tightens muscles and tissues around the upper neck to protect it. That’s a smart short-term response, but when it lasts too long, it can create new problems.
Over time, the body may start compensating:
- Posture shifts or twists
- One side working harder than the other
- Muscles staying tense even at rest
Eventually, this compensation can feel like chronic neck pain, headaches, dizziness, or a general sense that your body just isn’t stable anymore.
Reprinted with permission from Daniel O. Clark, D.C. Copyright 2022 www.uppercervicalillustrations.com
Many head and neck issues begin with an accident or injury — even ones that didn’t seem serious at the time. Things like:
- Car accidents, including low-speed or rear-end collisions
- Sports injuries
- Slips or falls
- A direct bump or hit to the head
All of these involve sudden movement of the head and neck. Even if you felt “okay” afterward, your neck often has no way to fully absorb that force.
It’s very common for symptoms to show up later, not right away.