Back injuries are among the most serious that a person can face. Car accidents very often lead to these injuries because the human body is not designed to withstand the extraordinary force created by collisions at high speeds. Even accidents that take place at relatively low speeds, however, can lead you to experience back pain.
It’s important to seek immediate treatment for back injuries. What may seem only minor back pain could, in fact, be a symptom of a very serious condition. If you don’t get checked out by a doctor, it’s very possible that an underlying condition could worsen and cause you more intense pain in the future.
Seeking treatment from a physician serves another purpose: If you are in an accident in which another person is at fault, documenting your injuries can be an important step in pursuing damages in a personal injury claim.
Common Back Injuries In Car Accidents
Back pain comes in many different varieties, and its severity can vary a great deal depending upon a specific injury.
Some conditions commonly seen after car accidents include:
- Thoracic spine injuries. The thoracic area of the spine is located in the upper back. The violent forces of a car crash can injure the thoracic vertebra and cause serious nerve damage. Severe upper back pain can also lead to neck pain.
- Lower back pain. An injury to the lumbar portion of the spine can affect a person’s mobility and can cause severe pain and tenderness. A lumbar injury can also result in damage to ligaments, muscles or tendons that can take a long time to heal. With lower back pain, it might take a day or more before the victim is fully aware of the severity of the injury.
- Herniated disks. Disks act as cushions that separate the segments of the spine (vertebrae) and keep them from touching. The impact of a car crash might cause the disks to rupture and allow the vertebrae to rub against each other, putting pressure on sensitive nerves.
It is important to remember that any injury to the back or spinal cord could cause a permanent disability and, for this reason, even seemingly non-serious conditions should be thoroughly checked out by a physician.
Recovering From Back Injuries
If you’re experiencing back pain, you understand just how debilitating it can be. Perhaps you’re in physical therapy to recover from injuries or are receiving anti-inflammatory injections to combat pain. Maybe a doctor has even suggested that you’ll need surgery. Whatever the case, getting better can take a long time, and a full recovery may not even be possible.
If your injuries have been caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to pursue compensation for damages for pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages. An experienced lawyer can help you to explore your legal options, providing guidance on personal injury law and walking you through each step of the process.