The unexpected happens.
Whether it be unexpected rain, a spill, or getting in an accident, our daily lives are often filled with unforeseen circumstances. In the event of an accident, getting neck injuries can be one of them.
This article will educate you on all you need to know about types of neck injuries from car accidents, what to expect, and how to seek help for the issue.
Keep reading for all the details!
1. Cervical Spondylolisthesis
Neck injuries people suffer from car accidents are often caused by cervical spondylolisthesis, the forward displacement of vertebrae in the cervical spine. At the base of the neck, the vertebrae transfer a lot of stress when a car is subjected to an abrupt stop, which is why neck injuries from car accidents occur in a large number of car accidents.
Symptoms of cervical spondylolisthesis can include neck and shoulder pain, stiffness, and numbness in the shoulders or arms. In severe cases, it may require surgical intervention. Treatment may involve medications such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants to reduce swelling and pain.
Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore flexibility and strength in the neck and surrounding muscles. People must also be aware of how to properly use a seatbelt to help minimize cervical spondylolisthesis injuries in car accidents and to help acquire proper treatment for pain and stiffness if they do sustain such an injury.
2. Slipped or Herniated Disc
Neck hurts after a car accident that involves a slipped or herniated disc are a common, painful, and sometimes disabling outcome. This type of injury occurs when the tissues between vertebrae become weakened, allowing discs to slip out of concentration and press on the nerves.
Neck pain is the most obvious symptom of this injury, but numbness, tingling, and pain that radiates down the arms, hands, or legs may also occur. Treatment for slipped or herniated discs begins with rest, ice and heat therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged disc. It is important to consult with a medical professional in order to determine the best course of treatment to prevent further damage to the affected area.
3. Neck Sprain or Strain
Neck pain after a car accident is caused by the sudden force of the accident, which can result in the head and neck being hyper-extended and then quickly snapped back or by a direct blow to the neck and head from another vehicle or object.
Symptoms of injured neck sprain or strain include injured neck, stiffness, headaches, tenderness to the touch, dizziness, and numbness in the shoulders, arms, and hands. Depending on the severity of the injury, the neck may feel tight and limited in range of motion.
Treatment for neck sprains and strains often includes rest, ice, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, injections or surgery. If you have experienced a neck injury in a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
4. Pinched Nerve
A pinched nerve is a common neck injury people may suffer in the event of a car accident. It occurs when blood flow and lymph circulation are blocked or pressured by external forces. This pressurized blocking of the nerve can cause sharp pain and a limited range of motion within the neck area and shoulder muscles.
People who suffer from this type of injury may experience numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and muscle weakness. Not only can these symptoms be painful and uncomfortable, but they can also be dangerous, as they may impede a person’s ability to remain alert and drive safely.
Treatment for a pinched nerve in the neck can come in the form of physical therapy, hot/cold therapy, as well as steroid treatments. It is important for someone who has been in a car accident to have their neck evaluated by a medical professional in order to get appropriate treatment.
5. Stiff Muscles and Tendons
Neck injuries people often suffer in a car accidents can cause uncomfortable and sometimes disabling stiff muscles and tendons. This is known as whiplash, an often painful aftermath of a sudden forward-backward movement of the head and neck.
The tendons that attach to the cervical vertebrae attach to the back of the head, and when they are damaged, they can cause the neck muscles to become too tight, resulting in soreness and stiffness.
Other related conditions that can arise from whiplash are tension headaches and pain in the shoulders. If not treated properly, whiplash can easily become more disabling over time and might eventually require surgery.
Rest, gentle stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate the pain associated with stiff muscles and tendons from a neck injury. Massage therapy and physical therapy are other ways to keep the neck limber and flexible while protecting the vulnerable tissue. If you are caught in an accident, get the best legal assistance and learn your rights here.
Learn About Neck Injuries From Car Accidents
Overall, neck injuries from car accidents can be very painful and require medical attention. If you or someone you know has suffered from a neck injury due to a car accident, seek medical help right away.
Additionally, do your research and learn more about the types of neck injuries that can be a result of a car accident. Knowing the facts can help to make sure you and your loved ones are safe when traveling.
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