Each day, Texas drivers take on the risk of potential involvement in motor vehicle accidents. While car accidents can damage automobiles, they can also cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers. If you’re like most people, you’ll walk away from an accident with a sore back. Sometimes, muscle soreness goes away by itself. In other cases, you might be dealing with more serious injuries, such as fractured or broken bones.
A sprained or strained back
Motor vehicle accidents often result in sprains or strains. While these terms are similar, they involve differing injuries. Back strain is the result of muscles stretching too far for comfort. A back sprain is typically more serious, occurring when ligaments tear from attached parts of the body.
Herniated discs
Your back contains discs to cushion the bones making up your spine. Due to their soft nature, discs can rapidly shift during the impact of vehicle accidents. As this sudden event takes place, discs in the back can slip or bulge out from their original locations. Protruding or herniated discs can also press against nerves, causing moderate to severe pain.
Fractured vertebrae
The human back also contains over 30 interlocking bones called vertebrae that help form the spinal column. When one or more of these bones suffer damage, they can often fracture. Compression fractures are small breaks caused by intense pressure. Burst fractures are often more serious, involving multiple crushed and scattered bones. It’s also possible to dislocate and fracture vertebrae simultaneously.
It’s always advisable to seek medical attention after car accidents. Obtaining medical care lets professionals use their skills and equipment to uncover the extent of your post-accident injuries. You’ll also want to keep medical documentation in case you seek damages from other parties.
