Common Spine-Related Injuries That Occur With Car Accidents
Car accidents end up playing a part in around 40 percent of all spinal injuries each year, which is why it’s important to understand how the spine becomes injured during these accidents. Even if you don’t believe that you’re suffering from an injury, there are times when only a doctor or physician will be able to identify if there’s an issue with your spine.
The Effects of Whiplash on the Spine
One of the most common events that occurs during an accident is what’s known as whiplash, which occurs when your head and neck are whipped backwards and forwards suddenly upon impact. Due to the specific head movements that need to occur in order to induce whiplash, this injury usually takes place solely with rear-end collisions. The symptoms of this injury commonly appear within 24-48 hours after the accident took place. These symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, blurred, vision, and stiffness around your neck. If left untreated, the area around your spine could become increasingly painful.
Additional Spinal Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Spinal fractures are common within the middle and lower portions of the spine during an accident, which usually occurs due to the upper body being thrust forward while the lower body remains mostly in place due to a seat belt. The vertebrae in your spine could become broken, causing you to experience moderate or severe pain. If this injury occurs, try not to move until an ambulance arrives, as this could worsen the issue. It’s also possible for a disc in your spine to become herniated, which occurs when the softer center of the disc breeches the exterior. Symptoms include numbness or arm and leg pain.
What to Do With An Injury
Make sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible following an accident, especially if you are suffering from such symptoms as numbness, tingling, or a loss of bladder control. Once you’ve been to a doctor or physician and have identified which types of injuries you’re suffering from, a car accident chiropractor may be able to minimize the pain that you’re experiencing and possibly heal the injury.