Common Back Injuries After a Car Accident

Back injuries are an unfortunately common result of car accidents. In fact, the Mayo Clinic reports that auto accidents are to blame for 40% of spinal injuries each year. Back injuries are notorious for taking a long time to heal and can cause a great deal of pain and frustration for victims. Moreover, an injury to the spinal cord can have serious consequences.

Here are some back injuries that commonly occur after an auto accident:

  1. Spinal fractures. Auto accidents are the leading cause of spinal fractures. The force of a car accident can cause a vertebra to break. These injuries can vary in location and severity, and are usually treated by immobilization. In serious cases, surgery might be necessary.
  2. Herniated disc. Discs are the softer cushions in between the vertebrae of the spine. In a forceful accident, the center of a disc can push through a tear in the disc’s exterior. This can result in irritation of the surrounding nerves. Symptoms include pain, numbness or tingling, and muscle weakness. Herniations are usually treated by various medications and physical therapy. Alternative treatments like chiropractic care or acupuncture may also help.
  3. Spondylolisthesis. The crash force can also cause the vertebrae to shift out of place. The displaced vertebra can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing pain, numbness and weakness. This condition is usually managed with pain medications and anti-inflammatories.

Some of these back injuries can be made worse if the victim is moved improperly right after the accident. If possible, car accident victims with serious injuries should wait until paramedics arrive before trying to exit the vehicle.

“Back injuries can have long-term consequences on the lives of car accident victims. If your accident has left you with a back injury, consult with a personal injury attorney about your case,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

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