Post-Whiplash Headache Treatment in Louisiana
A post-whiplash headache is a chronic headache that can develop after a whiplash injury, the violent back-and-forth jerking of the neck common in car accidents. At LA Pain Doctor, we treat the neck problems behind these headaches for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Post-Whiplash Headache?
When your head snaps forward and back during a collision, fall, or sports impact, the joints, ligaments, muscles, and nerves of the neck can be strained or injured. Weeks or even months later, some patients develop persistent headaches that start at the base of the skull and spread toward the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. These are often called cervicogenic headaches because the pain originates in the cervical spine.
Symptoms of Post-Whiplash Headaches
- Headaches that begin at the back of the head or neck
- Pain that worsens with neck movement or certain postures
- Neck stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Shoulder and upper back pain
- Dizziness, fatigue, or trouble concentrating
Why These Headaches Linger
Whiplash can injure the facet joints in the upper neck, irritate nerve roots, and leave neck muscles tight and full of painful trigger points. Without treatment, these problems can keep sending pain signals that show up as recurring headaches. Some patients also develop arm symptoms from Cervical Radiculopathy or aggravate an existing Herniated Disc.
Treatment Options at LA Pain Doctor
Your provider will evaluate your neck, review your accident history and imaging, and identify the structures causing your headaches. Many patients benefit from medial branch blocks to confirm facet joint involvement, followed by cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy for longer-lasting relief. Trigger point injections relax painful muscle knots, while a cervical epidural steroid injection can calm inflamed nerves.
If your headaches followed a car accident or work injury, our personal injury care team can coordinate your care. Learn more about Whiplash, Migraine Headaches, and our head and neck pain care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Whiplash Headache Treatment
How soon after whiplash can headaches start?
Headaches may begin right after the injury or develop days to weeks later as inflammation and muscle tension build.
How long do post-whiplash headaches last?
Some resolve within weeks, but others become chronic. Treating the underlying neck injury is the best way to prevent long-term headaches.
Are post-whiplash headaches the same as migraines?
They can feel similar, but post-whiplash headaches usually start in the neck and worsen with neck movement. Your provider will help determine the type of headache you have.
What treatments help post-whiplash headaches?
Medial branch blocks, radiofrequency neurotomy, trigger point injections, and epidural steroid injections are common, effective options.
Do you treat car accident injuries?
Yes. We regularly treat patients injured in auto accidents. Visit our Personal Injury page to learn more.
Should I wait to see if my headaches improve?
Persistent headaches after an accident should be evaluated. Early treatment can help prevent chronic pain.
Where can I get treatment?
LA Pain Doctor treats post-whiplash headaches at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Stop Living With Headaches After Whiplash
Get to the root of your headaches. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.