Back pain after a car accident
Back pain after a crash can range from a short-lived ache to symptoms that interfere with walking, work or sleep. After a rear-end collision, neck or upper back pain can also occur.
While some people do recover after a day or two, others suffer acute or chronic back pain.
The reasons for this vary. The spine and back is a complex organic machine made up of interconnected muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, and nerves. All of this serves to protect the spinal cord, one of the most delicate structures in the human body.
Damage to any part of the back can leave a person suffering from severe pain, weakness, and disability.
Promptly See a Doctor
After a significant crash, seek medical assessment for back or neck pain. Call 911 for severe spinal pain, new weakness or numbness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Avoid moving someone with a suspected spinal injury unless there is immediate danger.
Tell the clinician where it hurts, when the pain started and whether there is weakness, numbness or tingling. These details help determine what examination or referral is needed.
Imaging decisions depend on the examination and the mechanism of injury. MedlinePlus describes common back injuries and links to guidance on diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms can change after the initial examination. Ask which changes should prompt a return visit and bring your discharge paperwork to follow-up appointments.
What Your Back Pain Could Mean
The back and spine are designed to be highly flexible. Trauma, however, can suddenly snap or twist the delicate muscles and joints. The cause of your back pain depends on where your injury is located.
Whiplash
The impact may strain the soft tissues of the neck or upper back. Symptoms can include stiffness, pain and reduced range of motion. See what whiplash symptoms can feel like.
Follow the clinician’s guidance on safe activity as symptoms change.
Bulging and Herniated Discs
Between the vertebrae are discs that act as cushions. A bulging or herniated disc can put pressure on nearby nerves.
The significance of a disc finding depends on the examination and symptoms. Some disc problems improve without surgery, while other injuries require specialist care.
Facet Joint Injury
Facet joints connect adjacent vertebrae and help guide movement of the spine.
An injury to a facet joint can be painful, causing symptoms such as muscle spasms, stiffness, and headaches. Since the injury site is so small, it can be hard to detect. A doctor who specializes in diagnosing spinal conditions should examine a person who may be suffering from facet joint pain.
Spinal Fractures
The force of a crash can break one or more vertebrae. Some fractures can also affect nearby nerves or the spinal cord.
Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury needs immediate medical care. New weakness, numbness or loss of bladder or bowel control after a crash are emergency symptoms. The National Library of Medicine explains why prompt care matters.
How Long Does Back Pain From a Car Accident Last?
Recovery will depend on the injury, its location, your overall health and how your symptoms change over time.
Many back injuries require multiple treatments and extended recovery times. The long road back to feeling like yourself again can be very emotional. You may have to deal with physical limitations that keep you from working and doing activities that you enjoy.
Acute vs Chronic Back Pain
Acute back pain is often short-term. Persistent pain can limit work, sleep and daily activities. If your symptoms continue or worsen, arrange follow-up for an individualized plan.
Tips for Back Pain Relief
Gather a support system to help with rides, appointments and everyday tasks. Ask your clinician about safe activity, pain relief and when you can return to work.
The most important thing to remember is to listen to your body and your doctor. Pushing yourself to return to normal activities too soon can increase your risk of re-injury or long-term complications.
