Back pain after a car accident: When to see a doctor

back pain when to see the doctor

Car accidents can cause significant trauma to the spine, often leading to back pain that doesn’t go away on its own. Even minor collisions may result in injuries that develop gradually, making it critical to know when back pain signals a serious problem. Understanding when to seek medical care could be the difference between short-term discomfort and long-term disability.

Why back pain after a car accident matters

Following a car accident, lower back pain or upper back stiffness may seem like a minor inconvenience. But in reality, such symptoms often indicate underlying spinal injuries, such as herniated discs, soft tissue damage, or nerve compression. Left untreated, these issues can worsen, limiting your mobility and reducing your quality of life.

Common causes of post-accident back pain

Back pain after a car accident typically stems from:

  • Whiplash and sudden jerking motions
  • Compressed spinal discs
  • Muscle strain and ligament sprain
  • Misalignment of the spine
  • Nerve root irritation or inflammation

These conditions don’t always show up immediately after the crash. Some develop hours or even days later, which is why early evaluation is essential.

Warning signs you should never ignore

It’s crucial to recognize when back pain requires immediate medical attention. Contact a doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs
  • Sharp or radiating pain into your buttocks or legs
  • Difficulty walking, standing, or maintaining balance
  • Pain that disrupts your sleep or daily activities

When to see a doctor

If you’ve been in an accident and feel any form of lingering or worsening back pain, don’t wait. Seeing a pain management specialist like Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, ensures that you receive a comprehensive evaluation and the right treatment before the condition escalates.

The role of a pain management specialist

Unlike general practitioners, pain specialists focus specifically on diagnosing and treating chronic pain caused by injury or trauma. Dr. Nasiek is triple board-certified in anesthesiology, pain medicine, and interventional pain — uniquely qualified to evaluate and manage complex spine-related conditions. His approach is both evidence-based and deeply compassionate, providing care tailored to your individual needs.

What to expect during your medical evaluation

At Allied Neurology & Interventional Pain Practice, your visit begins with a thorough neurological and physical evaluation. Dr. Nasiek uses advanced diagnostic tools such as imaging and nerve testing to identify the root cause of your back pain. His team then develops a customized, non-surgical treatment plan focused on long-term relief and recovery.

Advanced treatment options with Dr. Nasiek

Dr. Nasiek offers a wide range of minimally invasive, non-surgical treatments, including:

  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Nerve blocks
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy
  • Physical therapy coordination
  • Chiropractic and acupuncture referrals

These therapies aim to reduce inflammation, relieve pressure on nerves, and restore function — without the need for surgery.

The risks of delaying care

Ignoring back pain after a car accident can lead to chronic, hard-to-treat conditions. Delayed treatment often results in:

  • Reduced mobility
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Long-term nerve damage
  • Dependence on pain medication

Early intervention helps avoid complications and gets you back to your daily life faster — safely and confidently.

Book your consultation today

If you’re experiencing back pain after a car accident, don’t wait until it becomes unmanageable. Dr. Dariusz Nasiek and his experienced team are here to help. With over 40 years of medical expertise and three board certifications, Dr. Nasiek delivers compassionate, cutting-edge care you can trust.

Call 201-894-1313 to schedule your consultation or visit one of our convenient locations across NJ and NY.

For additional information, please call or text:

"Healing begins when we treat not just the symptoms, but the person behind them."

Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MDPain Management