Clinically reviewed by Dr. Seth Hill, DC, President, Auto Injury Chiropractic. Last reviewed October 2026.

Dizziness after a car accident often comes from a strained upper neck, and sometimes from a concussion or an inner-ear problem. We examine you, screen for concussion, and treat neck-related dizziness with gentle adjustments, soft-tissue work and balance exercises.^2,3 Severe or sudden vertigo with vomiting, weakness or speech changes needs 911.

Chiropractor providing upper-neck care for dizziness and vertigo

Why crashes cause dizziness

A collision can strain the upper neck and disrupt the signals your brain uses for balance, a problem called cervicogenic dizziness. Dizziness can also come with whiplash or a concussion.¹ Symptoms include lightheadedness, unsteadiness, and spinning sensations, often worse with neck movement.¹

How a chiropractor helps

After an exam to find the source, care focuses on restoring normal motion and reducing irritation in the upper neck through gentle adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, and balance techniques. Every auto-injury exam at our three clinics includes a concussion screen. We also check for inner-ear causes such as BPPV, and we coordinate with your primary care provider, neurology or another specialist when needed.

When to call 911 or go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the emergency room for severe or sudden vertigo with vomiting, double vision, slurred speech, weakness, or fainting, because those can signal a stroke or another emergency.

Care at all three clinics

We offer same-day appointments in Oregon City, Milwaukie, and Troutdale, with licensed massage therapists on staff. After a car accident in Oregon, your PIP coverage typically covers reasonable and necessary care. We bill your PIP claim directly and verify your coverage before your first visit. Book a visit and we will get you in.

Common questions

Can a chiropractor help vertigo after a crash?

Often yes, when the dizziness is neck-related. Care starts after an exam to confirm the cause.

Why am I dizzy after a car accident?

A crash can strain the upper neck and disrupt balance, and dizziness can come with whiplash or concussion.

Is it serious?

It can be. Call 911 or go to the emergency room for severe vertigo with vomiting, vision or speech changes, weakness, or fainting.

References

Treleaven J, Jull G, Sterling M. Dizziness and unsteadiness following whiplash injury: characteristic features and relationship with cervical joint position error. J Rehabil Med. 2003;35(1):36-43. doi:10.1080/16501970306109. PMID 12610847.
Lystad RP, Bell G, Bonnevie-Svendsen M, Carter CV. Manual therapy with and without vestibular rehabilitation for cervicogenic dizziness: a systematic review. Chiropr Man Therap. 2011;19:21. doi:10.1186/2045-709X-19-21. PMID 21923933.
Reid SA, Rivett DA, Katekar MG, Callister R. Sustained natural apophyseal glides (SNAGs) are an effective treatment for cervicogenic dizziness. Man Ther. 2008;13(4):357-366. doi:10.1016/j.math.2007.03.006. PMID 17951095.

Auto Injury Chiropractic