Back pain after a car accident can be an indication of a severe injury. It could be a symptom of rib fracture, spinal cord injury, herniated discs, or whiplash. Because it doesn’t always manifest immediately after an accident, back pain often goes untreated and turns into a chronic condition.
If you have been in a car accident and are experiencing back pain, the Rockford Car Accident Lawyers at Tuite Law can help you get enough compensation to cover your medical expenses.
Common Types of Back Injuries
Your spine is vulnerable to varying levels of pain. When your spine is injured, you could suffer anything from mild, temporary symptoms to severe and permanent ones.
This is because it consists of three distinct sections, each of which is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and discs. These areas include the:
- Neck, or cervical vertebrae
- Upper back, or thoracic vertebrae
- Lower back, or lumbar vertebrae
Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury is the most serious cause of back pain after a car accident. It could be anything from bruising to permanent nerve damage. Severe spinal cord injuries could result in symptoms such as:
- Numbness or loss of feeling in some body parts
- Loss of reflex function
- Reduced range of motion
- Total paralysis
Because they often require surgery, spinal cord injuries could expose you to risks such as bleeding, blood clots, and infections.
Herniated Discs
Your vertebrae are separated by cushions called discs. Your discs also perform the crucial function of protecting your spine. When a disc is displaced, it is said to be herniated.
Herniated discs exert undue pressure on your spinal cord and the surrounding nerves. They often cause intense radiating lower back pain that sometimes radiates to the thighs and legs.
Upper Back Injury
Of all the sections of your spine, upper back injuries tend to be the most severe. Any injury to this area could affect your chest area and ribs. It could also lead to extensive nerve damage.
Lower Back Injury
Your lower back is equally delicate. It comprises the muscles and vertebrae necessary for stability. Lower back injuries could result in swelling or bruising or, in more severe accidents, limited or lost movement.
Whiplash
Whiplash is not a back injury. Nonetheless, it could manifest as back pain after a car accident. Symptoms of whiplash to watch for include:
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain or tension
- Headaches
- Shoulder or arm pain
- Blurry vision
- Memory loss
Whiplash symptoms may not appear for 24 hours following your accident. When they do appear, however, they tend to last for weeks.
Seek Medical Help
When ignored, back pain could turn into a more severe condition. See a doctor immediately after a car accident. Your doctor will likely run tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
There are numerous treatment options for back-related injuries. They range from physical therapy and rest to surgical procedures.
Make sure to collect all your medical records. Your Rockford Car Accident Lawyers at Tuite Law will use them to build your injury claim case.
Contact a Rockford Car Accident Attorney
Endorphins tend to mask post-accident pains such as back injuries. You must watch out for any unusual sensations or symptoms. You should also go for a medical check-up to be on the safe side.
Back pain after a car accident can result in untold pain and suffering. Contact a Rockford Car Accident Lawyer today to discuss your compensation claim case.
