Back Pain After a Car Accident
Back pain is one of the most common symptoms that car accident victims experience. It’s important not to ignore it, as it can indicate a serious injury that needs medical attention.
The car accident lawyers at Fales & Fales, P.A. can discuss your accident and options for pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver to cover medical expenses and other damages. Contact us for a free consultation.
Why Back Injuries Happen in Car Accidents
The force of a car accident impacts your body heavily, especially when seated. This concentrated force on the back often leads to injuries.
Common Back Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Back pain can signal an injury such as:
- Sprains or strains – Damage to ligaments, tendons, or muscles.
- Whiplash – Whiplash is one of the most common injuries people suffer in car accidents. It occurs when the head and neck snap backward and then forward, mimicking the action of a cracking whip. This sudden jolt strains and tears soft tissues in the neck. Whiplash can cause lasting back pain.
- Herniated discs – The force can damage spinal discs, which may compress nerves and cause serious pain.
- Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or long-term complications.
- Fractures – Vertebrae can fracture from the stress of a crash.
- Facet joint injuries – Facet joints are located on the back can be damaged, leading to conditions like facet joint syndrome, spinal arthritis, or overexertion.
- Spondylolisthesis – A vertebra slips out of place, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spinal stenosis – Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can pinch nerves and cause pain.
It’s crucial to seek medical care promptly, as any of these injuries can worsen without treatment.
Types of Back Pain
The type and location of your back pain may help your healthcare providers diagnose what type of injuries you have. Common types of back pain include:
- Upper back pain – Injuries to the upper back occur less often but are more severe when they do occur. The upper back supports less of your body weight, so pain in it is more likely to be linked to a traumatic injury rather than normal wear and tear. Upper back pain may indicate fractured vertebrae, strains, or tears in muscles or ligaments.
- Middle back pain – Middle back pain is also associated with more serious injuries, such as spinal injuries, herniated discs, and pinched nerves.
- Lower back pain – Lower back pain is the most common type of back pain after a motor vehicle accident. This pain can indicate injuries to bones, muscles, nerves, or tissues in the back.
Symptoms that Accompany Back Pain After a Car Accident
While back pain may be the most pronounced symptom you are feeling, car accident victims may suffer related symptoms, such as:
- Pain in the neck or head
- Headaches
- Sharp pain
- Burning pain
- Back stiffness
- Discomfort or pain while standing or walking
- Inability to walk or loss of balance
- Pain worsening in certain positions, such as bending over
- Disorientation or dizziness
- Muscle spasms
- Difficulty breathing
- Tingling, burning sensations, or numbness
- Inability to move extremities
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Some accident victims begin experiencing back pain and other symptoms immediately, while others have delayed symptoms.
Delayed Back Pain
Back pain and other symptoms may take days to appear after an accident. This delay can be due to the body’s adrenaline response, which may temporarily mask pain. Common delayed symptoms include headaches, stomach pain, pinching sensations, or tingling in the extremities. Seek medical attention after an accident, even if you don’t feel injured immediately.
Delayed pain symptoms may include:
- Headaches several days after an auto accident
- Stomach pain, swelling, bruising, or tenderness
- Pinching sensations in the upper body
- Weakness or difficulty lifting light things
- Tingling or numbness in the extremities
- Decreased hearing or vision
- Stress, anxiety, or panic
Seek medical attention after an accident, even if you don’t initially feel injured so that your conditions can be properly diagnosed and treated.
Medical Treatment for Back Pain
Your doctor may order diagnostic tests such as MRIs, X-rays, or CT scans to understand your injuries. Treatment options can include:
- Rest – Rest with alternating ice and heat to the area. Avoid strenuous activity.
- Physical therapy – Strengthens muscles, improves mobility, and restores function.
- Medications – NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or muscle relaxants can ease pain.
- Injections – Corticosteroid injections may reduce pain and inflammation.
- Chiropractic care – Helps relieve tension and improve spinal function.
- Surgery – IMay be necessary for severe injuries, like herniated discs or fractures.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you are experiencing back pain after a car accident, seek immediate medical attention. Contact Fales & Fales, P.A. for a free consultation. Our experienced car accident attorneys will help you seek the compensation you need to cover medical bills and other expenses.
