Three common pain areas
Neck
Stiffness turning or tilting the head, often with tight shoulders.
Mid-back
Aching between the shoulder blades or along the ribs, sometimes following the seat-belt line.
Lower back
Tightness across the belt line, sometimes into the hips. Pain running down a leg should be checked.
Seat-belt pressure and the upper back
Seat belts do their job by holding you in place, which means a lot of force goes across the chest, shoulder and hip. Bruising along the belt line is common. Chest pain or trouble breathing is not something to wait on: call 911.
Red flags that need emergency care
- Numbness or weakness in the legs or arms
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe pain right after impact, or fever with back pain
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
What the exam involves
- 01
History
What happened, where it hurts and what makes it better or worse.
- 02
Exam
Spine and hip movement, tenderness, posture and a neurological screen when appropriate.
- 03
Next step
Chiropractic care if it fits, or a referral for imaging or a medical evaluation.
Care options we may recommend
Depending on your exam: chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue work, mobility and core exercises, and advice for sitting, lifting and sleep.
Questions we hear from Richardson patients
Is back pain a day after a crash normal?
Soreness that builds over a day or two is common. It is still worth paying attention to, and red-flag symptoms need emergency care.
Should I rest in bed?
Long bed rest is generally not recommended for back strain, but ask at your exam. Gentle movement within comfort is often encouraged.
Will I need an MRI?
Not usually at the first visit. If your exam suggests imaging, we explain why and refer you.
Can you see me the same day?
When the schedule allows. Call (214) 484-2629.
General information only, not medical or legal advice. Individual results vary, and no specific outcome is promised. Dr. Hung Manh Cao, D.C. is licensed by the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners (#199019).
