Headaches can have many causes after MVC. Brain injury is a concern and a proper diagnosis of which head injury condition she is experiencing is warranted for treatment and long term effects. Traumatic Brain Injury secondary to Concussion is a concern. Whether it was a primary collision of the head and vehicle or secondary collisions of the brain and skull, determining the type of brain injury is crucial. Temporal Mandibular Joint Disease after MVC or injury to the greater suboccipital nerve would also cause headaches. Cervical sprain and strain are also concerns. Thoracic sprains as well as rib sprains need to be considered.

Physical Exam Findings:

Weight: 140, Height: 5’3”

Cranial Faults were evident in this patient mostly at the frontal, temporal and occipital regions. Cranial Nerve evaluation was normal. Upon TMJ evaluation, this patient had a right lateral jaw deviation and audible click with decreased opening. There were no obvious bruises on this patient’s face or body.

Cervical sprains and fixations were noted at C1 – C6 with muscle associated swelling. Cervical flexors and extensors, suboccipital muscles and trapezius were spastic bilaterally. All cervical ranges of motion were limited. Compressions tests were negative for radiculopathy. Cervical flexor strength was rated 4/5. All other cervical muscles were 5/5.

Thoracic spinal fixations were noted from T4-T9 with rib sprains at left ribs 7, 8. Swelling was evident in the rhomboids. 

Question: What is your working diagnosis at this point?