Soreness After an Accident
Some soreness after an accident is expected. The question is whether yours is the kind that fades, or the kind that points to an injury.
We are not a law firm or a medical provider. We connect you with doctors who treat these injuries.
Why this happens
Your body tenses hard during an impact, so muscles can end up as sore as after a very intense workout, peaking around day two. That kind of soreness is dull, widespread, and slowly improves over about a week. Soreness is more concerning when it is sharp, focused on one spot, getting worse after the first few days, or paired with bruising, swelling, numbness, or limited movement.
When this is a medical emergency
Go to an emergency room right away, don't wait for a regular appointment, if you have:
- Belly pain, a swollen belly, or bruising across the abdomen, especially with dizziness
- Pain with deep breaths or chest pain
- Numbness, weakness, or pain that shoots down a limb
- Soreness that is getting steadily worse instead of better
Commonly linked to these accident types
This symptom shows up often after these kinds of accidents. Find help specific to your situation.
Soreness: 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
How long should soreness last after a car accident?
Ordinary muscle soreness usually improves within a week or two. If it is not clearly improving after about a week, or it is getting worse, have it examined.
How do I know if it is more than soreness?
Sharp pain in one spot, pain that limits movement, visible swelling or bruising, and numbness or tingling all suggest more than simple soreness.
Should I see a doctor if I am only sore?
If the crash was significant, a visit is a reasonable precaution even when you feel mostly sore. It also creates a record of your symptoms from early on.
Related guides
- Car AccidentsWhat to Do After a Car Accident With No InsuranceBeing in a car accident without insurance is stressful, but you still have options. Learn the steps to take immediately after a crash to protect your health and your rights in California.
- Medical CareDo I Need a Lawyer to See a Doctor After a Crash?No, you do not need a lawyer to get medical treatment after an accident. Many California clinics and providers will treat you on a lien basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
- ResourcesFree Medical Help for Undocumented Victims in CaliforniaUndocumented accident victims in California have the right to emergency medical care regardless of immigration status. This guide covers free and low-cost options available to you.