Back and neck pain after a car accident can be debilitating. The sudden impact of a collision can cause your body to move in unnatural ways, causing immediate discomfort or setting the stage for pain that emerges days or even weeks later. In these situations, it is essential to seek medical attention after a collision—even if you do not think that your injuries are serious.
Symptoms of Back and Neck Injuries After a Car Accident
Back and neck injuries can cause both immediate and delayed symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Right away, you may experience intense pain in the neck, back, or head, difficulty moving your extremities, or tingling sensations throughout your body. Headaches, loss of balance, or even trouble breathing may also occur.
Not all symptoms appear right away, and delayed signs should never be ignored. Headaches developing days after the accident, persistent weakness, or difficulty lifting objects could signal underlying injuries, like brain trauma. If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
Ongoing pain
Persistent headaches
Changes in hearing or vision
Confusion or disorientation
Numbness or tingling in your arms, hands, or fingers
Changes in mood, behavior, or sleep patterns
Common Types of Back and Neck Injuries in Crashes
Car accidents can result in a wide range of back and neck injuries, and each of these injuries can impact your daily life in substantial ways. Some of the most common include:
Whiplash: A sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck can strain muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Known as whiplash, this injury often causes chronic pain and reduced mobility.
Herniated Discs: The force of impact can cause spinal discs to rupture or bulge, putting pressure on nearby nerves. Herniated discs can cause significant pain and potential nerve damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe accidents may damage the spinal cord itself, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis below the injury site. Spinal cord damage is a serious injury that often requires lifelong care.
Facet Joint Injuries: These small joints along the spine can become inflamed or damaged during a car accident, leading to symptoms like chronic pain and stiffness in the neck or back.
When to See a Doctor for Back and Neck Pain After a Collision
You should always seek medical attention after a car accident, regardless of how you feel at the moment. Some injuries—including neck and back damage—may not show any symptoms right away due to the adrenaline rush from the crash and the nature of the damage. A thorough medical examination can help detect hidden injuries and establish a link between the accident and your symptoms for any future legal claims.
If you begin to experience back and neck pain in the hours, days, or weeks following the accident, don’t hesitate to return to your doctor or visit the emergency room. Always follow your doctor’s orders and continue to receive the treatment that you need.
Consult with a Washington Car Accident Attorney Today
Dealing with back and neck pain after a car accident can be overwhelming, but you do not need to face the aftermath alone. A Seattle car accident attorney can be your advocate during this challenging time, fighting for your right to fair compensation. Schedule a free legal consultation as soon as possible to learn more about legal options and begin your journey to justice.
