Lower Back Pain Caused by Car Accident Injuries
Lower back pain is a common condition experienced by people injured in car accidents.
A car accident victim may be left wondering how long the pain will last. In some cases, lower back pain is a symptom of a soft tissue injury, or it could be an indication of something more serious.
Muscle Strains
The most common lower back injury suffered in car accidents is a muscle strain, caused by sudden and unnatural body movement. Such injuries are often minor and heal on their own, even though they can cause significant pain and discomfort.
The lower back provides stability to the upper part of the body. Depending on the location of the muscle strain, a victim may not be able to perform strenuous physical activity after the injury. The most common treatment for lower back injuries is rest and pain medications. Patients are generally advised not to perform any physical activities for a few days or even weeks to aid healing.
Herniated Disc
Another common lower back injury suffered in car accidents is a herniated disc. The spine is made of vertebrae cushioned by soft discs. During a car crash, the force of the impact can cause rupturing, tearing, or swelling in the disc. A herniated disc can press on the nerves in the spinal column, causing weakness and pain. Herniated discs are treated with a combination of physical therapy and pain medication. If this does not work, then surgery might be the only option available. A doctor may perform spinal fusion surgery in which a part of the affected disc is removed and the vertebrae are fused together.
Some victims suffer Spondylolisthesis after a car accident. This occurs when there is a fracture in the vertebra that causes it to slip out of its place. Spondylolisthesis is treated the same way as a herniated disc and more serious cases may require spinal fusion surgery.
Additional Pain Caused by Back Injuries
These injuries can cause pain not just in the back, but in other areas as well. The spinal cord is connected to various parts of the body; any pressure on the nerves in the spinal column can cause pain in different parts of the body. These injuries can cause pain in the back, legs, buttocks, and bottom of the feet.
Car Accident Claim for Lower Back Injuries
If you have suffered lower back injuries resulting from a car accident, you may be able to pursue a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact a St. Louis car accident attorney for legal advice. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361–4242.
