Neck Strain After Minor Accident: Concerns After 3 Weeks of Pain

I have a neck sprain that has lasted for three weeks and hasn't improved. I'm a bit worried?

Hello, Dr.
Shih.
On September 20th of this year, I was involved in a minor collision between two scooters (it wasn't a serious accident, and both parties only sustained minor injuries).
At the time, I only had abrasions on my hands and feet.
The next day, I started to feel pain in my neck, specifically at the junction of the upper trapezius muscle and the neck when turning or tilting my head (there's no pain when my head is stationary, and I have not experienced any discomfort or numbness in my limbs).
I underwent one round of physical therapy, which helped significantly, and I thought I would continue to improve on my own, so I did not return for further therapy.
Now, three weeks have passed since the accident, and while I feel like I'm gradually improving, I'm not completely healed yet.
Therefore, I would like to ask you, Dr.
Shih: 1) Is it common to still have lingering issues three weeks after the incident? Should I expect to fully recover in the next few days? 2) When I initially saw my doctor, no X-ray was ordered.
Should I urgently request an X-ray now to check for any potential serious injuries? Thank you, Dr.
Shih.

Hao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/12

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
It usually takes about six weeks to recover.
2.
If there are any concerns, it's best to get an X-ray.

Reply Date: 2023/10/12

More Info

Hello, thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your neck strain following a minor motorcycle accident. It's understandable to have concerns about lingering pain and the potential for underlying injuries after such an incident. Let's address your questions one by one.

1) Duration of Symptoms: It's not uncommon for neck pain, especially after a minor accident, to persist for several weeks. The muscles and soft tissues in the neck can take time to heal, and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. In many cases, mild strains or sprains can improve gradually over a few weeks, but complete resolution may take longer, especially if there was any inflammation or muscle tightness involved. Given that you have already undergone a round of rehabilitation and noticed some improvement, it suggests that your body is healing. However, if you still experience pain after three weeks, it may indicate that the healing process is slower than expected, or there may be other factors at play, such as muscle tension or postural issues.
2) Need for Imaging: Regarding the necessity of an X-ray, it is generally not required unless there are specific red flags, such as severe pain, neurological symptoms (like numbness or weakness), or if the pain worsens significantly. Since your doctor did not initially recommend imaging and you have not experienced any alarming symptoms, it may not be urgent to pursue an X-ray right now. However, if your pain persists or worsens, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider again. They may reassess your condition and determine if further imaging is necessary to rule out any significant injuries, such as fractures or disc issues.

In the meantime, continue to manage your symptoms with conservative measures. This includes:
- Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain.

- Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can help reduce inflammation, while heat can relax tight muscles.

- Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Engage in gentle neck stretches and strengthening exercises as tolerated. This can help improve flexibility and reduce tension.

- Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture, especially if you spend long periods sitting or working at a desk. Proper ergonomics can alleviate strain on your neck.

If you find that your symptoms are not improving or if they worsen, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider additional treatments such as physical therapy, medication for pain management, or further diagnostic imaging if necessary.

In summary, while it is not unusual for neck pain to linger after a minor accident, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have any concerns or if your condition does not improve, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and recovery are paramount, and ensuring that you receive appropriate care is crucial for a full recovery.

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