Back injuries are among the most frequent and debilitating consequences of car accidents. The sudden twisting, bending, or impact forces your body experiences during a collision can cause long-term damage that often lasts far longer than a broken bone or minor muscle strain. Many back injuries do not heal on their own, and recovery can require significant time, medical treatment, and financial resources.
Common Types of Back and Spinal Injuries
Because the lower back supports most of the body’s weight, it is particularly vulnerable during car accidents. The following are some of the most common back and spinal injuries:
- Strains and Sprains: Ligaments and tendons can be stretched or torn by sudden movements beyond their normal range. Symptoms often include muscle spasms, difficulty bending, walking, or performing daily activities.
- Nerve Injuries: When nerves are compressed by the spine or surrounding tissue, it can cause stabbing or shooting pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating from the lower back into the legs.
- Vertebrae Fractures: Cracks or breaks in the spinal bones may worsen when standing or walking but may improve when lying down. Vertebral fractures can lead to hip pain, posture changes, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.
- Herniated Discs: Discs act as cushions between vertebrae, absorbing shock and facilitating movement. A herniated disc occurs when a disc shifts or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves and causing arm or leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
- Whiplash: Common in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head and neck jerk forward and backward suddenly. Symptoms include headaches, stiffness, and upper back or shoulder pain, which may intensify over time.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These are the most serious back injuries, potentially affecting mobility, breathing, and bladder or bowel control. The severity depends on the location and extent of the injury and may result in partial or complete paralysis.
What Types of Accidents Cause Back and Spinal Injuries?
The severity of a spinal injury depends on multiple factors, including:
- The type of collision (rear-end, T-bone, rollover)
- Speed at the time of impact
- Use of seat belts and safety restraints
- Seating position within the vehicle
- Age, health, and body mechanics at the time of the accident
Even minor accidents can cause significant back injuries, so it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention and start documenting your symptoms and treatment immediately. Early documentation preserves evidence that can be critical in holding responsible parties accountable.
Our Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Can Help
Recovering from a back or spinal injury can be long and complicated, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Delaware County car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC can help. Call 215-569-8488 or schedule a free consultation online. With offices in Philadelphia, Abington, and Wilmington, Delaware, we proudly serve clients across the surrounding areas.