Car accidents, even minor ones, can turn your body upside down—and not always right away. It’s common to feel fine at first, only to develop aches, stiffness, or sharp pain days later.
If this sounds like what you’re going through, you’re not alone—and it’s important to take your symptoms seriously.
At First Priority ER in New Braunfels, we regularly treat patients with delayed pain after a car accident, and we’re here to help you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to get checked out.
Why Pain Can Show Up Days After a Car Accident
When you’re in a car crash, your body goes into survival mode. The adrenaline and shock that follow can mask pain temporarily. It’s only once your body starts to come down from that initial response that underlying injuries start to reveal themselves.
These types of injuries may not cause pain right away, but can worsen over time:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back or spinal strain
- Joint pain or swelling
- Muscle bruising or soft tissue injuries
- Concussions or minor head trauma
Don’t Ignore Delayed Pain: It Could Be a Sign of a Hidden Injury
Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp stabbing pain, or just a feeling that “something’s off,” it’s worth checking out—especially if the pain is interfering with your sleep, breathing, or movement.
Some warning signs to watch for include:
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- New bruising or swelling days after the accident
- Trouble walking, turning your head, or lifting your arms
- Headaches that don’t go away
- Dizziness, memory issues, or blurred vision
These could be signs of concussions, internal injuries, or soft tissue damage—all of which we can evaluate and treat at First Priority ER.
Why Choose First Priority ER in New Braunfels?
If you’re searching for where to go for car accident pain, skip the long waits and confusion of large hospital systems. At First Priority ER, we offer:
- ✅ Zero wait time
- ✅ On-site X-rays, CT scans, and lab work
- ✅ Experienced emergency physicians
- ✅ Personalized, compassionate care
- ✅ Convenient location right off S. Seguin Ave near I-35
We’re open 24/7, so you don’t have to wait another day (or night) to feel better.
FAQ: Pain After a Car Accident
Q: Is it normal to feel pain days after a car accident?
Yes—delayed pain is very common. Adrenaline can mask symptoms initially, but as inflammation sets in, pain often appears a few days later.
Q: How long should I wait before seeing a doctor?
If your pain persists, gets worse, or is affecting your ability to move, sleep, or function normally, you should come in immediately for evaluation.
Q: What if I didn’t go to the ER right after the accident?
That’s okay. Many injuries aren’t obvious at the scene. It’s never too late to get checked out, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Q: Will insurance cover a visit to First Priority ER?
We accept most major insurance plans. Our billing team will work with you to explain what’s covered and make the process smooth and stress-free.
Q: Can First Priority ER do X-rays or imaging if needed?
Yes—we have on-site imaging, including X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans, so you won’t need to go elsewhere for testing.
Q: What kinds of injuries do you typically treat after an accident?
We commonly treat whiplash, back pain, concussions, bruised ribs, soft tissue injuries, joint pain, and more.
Still Hurting After a Car Accident? Come See Us Today.
Pain after an accident isn’t something you should brush off—especially if it’s getting worse or affecting your daily life. At First Priority ER, we’ll take your symptoms seriously, treat your pain, and help you get answers fast.
Whether your pain started an hour ago or three days after the accident, our team is here 24/7 with hospital-level care and no wait times.
Stop wondering if it’s “just soreness” and come see what’s really going on. Your health is our first priority—always.