Relieve Neck and Back Pain After Your Car Accident in Chicago
Back pain is common after a car accident, as the force of the impact can push the occupants of the vehicle. It can be difficult to know if back pain is normal or an indication of a more serious injury. Here are some tips for knowing if your back pain is a symptom of a serious injury after a car accident.
Common back injuries after a car accident in Chicago
Back injuries that occur in car accidents are usually acute back injuries, which are caused when a sudden force is exerted on this part of the body. Acute back injuries are often identified by their sudden and severe pain that is often accompanied by swelling and bruising at the impact site. The only advantage of acute back injuries is that the pain usually lasts only 6 to 8 weeks. These are the most common types of acute injuries:
Sprain or strain of the back muscles or ligaments.
Torn or broken disc. This type of injury is exclusively associated with lower back injuries compared to upper back injuries.
Compression of the lower nerves due to swelling.
Fracture or dislocation of the spine. This type of injury, if not managed properly or if it is severe enough, can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Treatment of acute back injuries
Most minor to moderate back injuries heal on their own in 1 to 6 weeks. Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers, ice, and heat, as well as stretching to help control pain, swelling, and stiffness.
More serious back injuries may take longer to heal and may need the help of other treatments, which may include some or all of the following:
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractor
- Medicine
- Surgery
The type of treatment your doctor prescribes will depend on the severity of your back injury and your position. The doctor will also take into account your age, health, and extracurricular activities.
For minor back injuries, some doctors may recommend that you continue your daily activities, such as exercise, as long as those daily activities do not involve heavy lifting. Moving the body will help reduce the chances of a stiff back and help decrease pain by stimulating blood flow to the affected area.
If you have questions or would like to meet with one of our doctors, please contact our chiropractors in Chicago to get the appropriate treatment for you. Call or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
