Types of Upper and Middle Back Pain After Car Accident
Upper and middle back pain is frequently associated with rear-end collisions since the head is jolted back and forth, causing neck and upper back injury. It may also happen due to the driver swerving off the path or slamming on the brakes to prevent an impact. Depending on the cause, many bodily systems around the spine's vertebrae can be harmed. These could include tendons, muscles, discs, ligaments, and nerves. The following are some of the most prevalent injuries that cause back discomfort in people involved in car accidents:Strains and Sprains
Lumbar spine strains and sprains are common back injuries following a car collision. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the lower back might overstretch or rupture due to the force of contact. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons states that discomfort, tightness, and spasms are common side effects of strains and sprains.Fractures
Compression fractures of the lower and middle back are common in car accidents. A seat belt keeps the lower half of the body in place while the top half is abruptly flung forward, resulting in fractured vertebrae. The discomfort can be extremely unbearable.Whiplash
Low-speed rear-end collisions are a common cause of whiplash. The force of a vehicle crash causes the head to rock back and forth, hence the name "whiplash.” The violent motion might stretch or tear the neck's muscles and tendons. You can usually manage mild cases of whiplash at home with over-the-counter pain relievers and exercise, and they will improve independently. Chronic neck pain may develop in more acute cases, necessitating more thorough medical attention.Injuries to the Spinal Cord
Accidents involving motor vehicles are the most common cause of spinal cord injury. Mayo Clinic affirms that victims with "incomplete" spinal cord injuries may retain motor capabilities, although determining the extent of the damage might take weeks. Spinal cord injury can leave victims disabled for the rest of their life. It can result in loss of sensation and function below the injury spot. Apart from total or partial paralysis, spinal cord injuries can result in persistent pain, blood clots, infections, and other serious complications.Early Symptoms of Upper and Middle Back Injury
After a car accident, you may feel sore and achy for a few days, which is entirely normal. However, keep an eye out for any unusual pain or sensations. Following a car accident, be on the lookout for the following signs and symptoms. Any or all of the following symptoms could indicate a significant back injury requiring medical attention.- The ability to move normally is lost
- Pain that worsens when you lift, bend, or twist your body
- Numbness, tingling, and weakness on one side of the low back, buttocks, leg, and foot