Can you have a concussion without hitting your head?

Yes. The rapid motion of the head and neck in a collision can move the brain inside the skull even without a direct impact.

How soon should I be evaluated after an accident?

Promptly is reasonable, and it is worth being evaluated even if symptoms are mild or delayed, because concussion symptoms can develop over hours and days.

Do you treat both the concussion and the neck symptoms?

Our assessment considers both the brain and the neck, since they are frequently affected together after a collision.

Concussion After a Car Accident

Concussion After a Car Accident in Westchester, NY

A car accident can cause a concussion even when your head does not strike anything. The same forces that cause whiplash can move the brain inside the skull, and symptoms sometimes appear hours or days after the collision.

Why a collision can injure the brain and the neck together

The neck and the brain are often affected at the same time and can share symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. An evaluation that considers both supports an accurate picture and a clear plan.

Symptoms to watch for after an accident

Headache, neck pain, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to light or sound, trouble concentrating or remembering, and changes in sleep or mood. These do not always appear the same day. Seek emergency care for a severe or worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, or difficulty staying awake.

How we evaluate

We establish a baseline through a structured history, a neurological and vestibular examination, cognitive testing, and validated questionnaires. The neck is part of the assessment when it is contributing to symptoms, and findings are organized into a clear record.

Ongoing, tracked recovery

Brief check ins between visits let your care team follow your recovery, and telehealth follow up can reduce travel. Kavera organizes the tracking and does not provide treatment.

Learn about our full concussion program, read about post concussion syndrome care, or review concussion symptoms.

Explore the program

Concussion care by need.

Post Concussion Syndrome Care
Focused care for concussion symptoms that last beyond the usual recovery window.
Sports Concussion and Return to Play
Baseline assessment and a graded, clinician supervised return to sport.
Concussion After a Car Accident
Neurological evaluation when a collision affects the brain and the neck.
Concussion Symptoms
Common signs of a concussion and when to see a specialist.
Telehealth Concussion Care
Virtual evaluation and follow up alongside your in person care.
Youth and Pediatric Concussion Care
Evaluation and return to learn guidance for children and teenagers.

Patient questions

Frequently asked questions

Can you have a concussion without hitting your head?: Yes. The rapid motion of the head and neck in a collision can move the brain inside the skull even without a direct impact.
How soon should I be evaluated after an accident?: Promptly is reasonable, and it is worth being evaluated even if symptoms are mild or delayed, because concussion symptoms can develop over hours and days.
Do you treat both the concussion and the neck symptoms?: Our assessment considers both the brain and the neck, since they are frequently affected together after a collision.
Where are you located?: Institute For Spine Surgery, 244 Westchester Avenue, Suite 209, West Harrison, NY 10604. Call (914) 948 3008.

Request a consultation

Take the next step toward recovery.

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Request a Consultation→Call (914) 948 3008

Request a Consultation

Request your concussion consultation.

Share a few details and our team will reach out within one business day. For urgent matters, call (914) 948 3008.

Concussion program

Call or email to get started

Our online request form is briefly unavailable while we finish a secure upgrade. To reach our care team, call us or send an email and we will respond within one business day.

(914) 948 3008 info@nybrainspine.com

For your privacy, please do not include detailed medical information in your email. Call our office to discuss any health details.

Visit us

Our location.

Office

Institute For Spine Surgery
244 Westchester Avenue, Suite 209
West Harrison, NY 10604

Phone

(914) 948 3008

This page is for general information and does not constitute medical advice. Kavera is a clinical decision support tool used by our care team and does not replace professional medical judgment. If you have experienced a head injury, seek appropriate medical evaluation.

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