Pain Getting Worse After an Accident
Pain that gets worse as the weeks go by, instead of fading, is a signal that something has not been properly treated.
We are not a law firm or a medical provider. We connect you with doctors who treat these injuries.
Why this happens
Soft-tissue injuries should slowly improve. When they do not, a few things may be happening: a disc problem that is progressively irritating a nerve, scar tissue and stiffness from untreated strain, compensating muscles overworking, or an injury that was never fully diagnosed. Waiting does not make these resolve on their own, and a gap in treatment can also complicate an insurance claim.
When this is a medical emergency
Go to an emergency room right away, don't wait for a regular appointment, if you have:
- New weakness or numbness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain with fever or redness and warmth in a joint
- Severe pain that wakes you at night and does not ease
Commonly linked to these accident types
This symptom shows up often after these kinds of accidents. Find help specific to your situation.
Pain Getting Worse: find a doctor by city
Pick your city to see local care options, or contact us directly. We cover all of California.
Southern California
- Anaheim
- Bell Gardens
- Burbank
- Canoga Park
- Chula Vista
- Compton
- Costa Mesa
- Downey
- East LA Community
- East Los Angeles
- El Cajon
- El Monte
- Escondido
- Fullerton
- Garden Grove
- Glendale
- Huntington Beach
- Inglewood
- Irvine
- Koreatown
- Lake Forest
- Lancaster
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Norwalk
- Oceanside
- Orange
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Pasadena
- Pomona
- San Diego
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Simi Valley
- South Los Angeles
- Thousand Oaks
- Torrance
- Van Nuys
- Ventura
- Vista
- West Covina
Inland Empire
Bay Area
North Bay
Greater Sacramento
Central Coast
Care options for this symptom
Doctors and treatment
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Frequently asked questions
Why is my pain getting worse weeks after a car accident?
It may be an undiagnosed disc or nerve problem, untreated strain turning into stiffness, or other muscles overworking. An exam and sometimes imaging identify the cause.
Is it too late to get checked?
No. You can get examined at any point, but the sooner you do, the easier it is to treat and to document.
Can I be seen if I have no insurance?
Yes. Many California providers see accident patients on a medical lien basis, so you are seen first and billing is worked out later. Terms vary by provider, so ask for them in writing before you start.
Related guides
- Medical CarePain Management Options After an AccidentManaging pain after an accident is critical for your recovery. This guide covers both medication-based and non-medication approaches, including physical therapy and chiropractic care.
- ResourcesTransportation Options for Injured VictimsGetting to medical appointments when you are injured can be a real challenge. Learn about free and low-cost transportation programs available to accident victims across California.
- InsuranceHit by an Uninsured Driver in California? Here's What to DoFinding out the other driver has no insurance is stressful, but getting medical care doesn't have to wait. Learn about uninsured motorist coverage, documentation, and your options.