Auto accidents continue to be a major challenge for the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 8,650 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the first three months of 2024. On the other hand, the World Health Organization reported that each year, approximately 1.19 million people die as a result of traffic accidents. Between 20 and 50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries, many of which will result in disability. Among the most common injuries following a car accident are back injuries. The back encompasses a large part of the body and is composed of ligaments, muscles, tissues, tendons, and bones that are sensitive to the excessive force exerted on the body during an accident.
Back pain after a car accident: What to do?
The first thing to do after a car accident is to seek medical attention. You may feel no discomfort after the impact and have no visible injuries, however, going to a medical center will give you the opportunity to diagnose hidden injuries that may lead to a long-term health problem. If you have back pain after the accident, there are several treatment options including:
Chiropractic adjustments.
Chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective in treating neck pain and low back pain through spinal manipulation and alignment that help reduce pressure on the central nervous system. This type of treatment is effective for neck and low back injuries.
Physical therapy
Physical therapists treat back and spinal injuries by focusing on spinal health and alignment.
Low level laser treatment
A form of treatment that applies light-emitting diodes to the surface of the body. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and accelerates the repair of connective tissue.
Heat/cold therapy
This is a form of treatment that involves the use of both heat and cold to stimulate healing. It is as simple as placing an ice pack on the tender areas of the lower back to relieve inflammation. After a few days, the cold treatment is switched to warm baths and heating pads. The heat is intended to relax the tense muscles that cause the pain.
Electrical nerve stimulation
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation involves the use of electrodes placed on the skin to provide electronic stimulation to the nerves and relieve pain symptoms.
What are some common symptoms of a back injury?
A back injury can have several symptoms, including:
- A shooting pain that radiates to the foot.
- A painful sensation in the lower back.
- Reduced range of motion or decreased ability to flex the back.
- Inability to stand up straight without pain.
Other symptoms that may indicate a serious problem include:
- Weakness, tingling or numbness in one or both legs.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Constant, severe pain that gets worse at night.
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
If you have a back injury, you may feel pain in a specific part of your back or it may be generalized throughout your back. You may also have pain in other areas, such as:
- Buttocks
- Your legs
- Abdomen
Depending on the type, cause, and location of your back pain, it may get worse when you:
- Lifting or bending over
- Resting
- Sitting
- Standing up
Contact us today to begin treatment for your Atlanta back injury.
Back injuries can be painful and uncomfortable, and they can affect your ability to perform everyday activities. If you were recently involved in an auto accident and live in Atlanta or the surrounding area, we can treat your injuries immediately. Our team of doctors at Accident 911 has been helping and treating victims with back injuries after a car accident.
