According to the Mayo Clinic, automobile accidents are one of the leading causes of spine injuries and are responsible for more than 40 percent of spinal injuries every year. This is a troubling statistic. While car accidents cannot always be prevented, having the right knowledge about spine injuries can help you to recognize an injury so that you know what to do if you are in a car accident.
The spine is a complex structure, but it is also delicate. The spine is not built to withstand the impact of a car accident. Unfortunately, neck and back injuries are common during car accidents; the impact strains the ligaments and muscles in the back, and the facet joints bear the brunt of the force. This can result in several injuries, including whiplash, disc herniation, compression fractures, and spondylolisthesis.
It is important to be able to spot the symptoms of these injuries so that if you or someone else is injured, you will know what to do. Some injuries can be made worse if the injured person is moved. Even if it was a low-speed car accident, if you experience back or neck pain afterward, you should seek the help of a medical professional. A muscle strain may heal on its own, but if back or neck pain is caused by a more serious injury, a person may still feel pain months or years later.
What to Do if You Have a Spinal Injury
If you experience any back or neck pain at all following a car accident, you should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out any serious injury. However, it is especially important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience tingling, numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These are indications of a more serious injury that must be addressed immediately.
If you have any indications of spinal injury following a car accident, please call us asap 617-282-8700! We are located in Fields Corner and we’re here to help you regain your quality of life and your sense of wellness!
