Spine injuries can occur for various reasons, but car accidents are one of the leading causes.
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, around 450,000 Americans live with a spinal cord injury (SCI). It’s also estimated that there are at least 17,000 new SCIs every year.
Spine injuries can occur for various reasons, but car accidents are one of the leading causes.
Why Are Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) So Common After a Car Crash?
There are several reasons for this. First, the human spine is not designed to withstand the high forces involved in a car crash. Second, seat belts and airbags designed to protect occupants during a crash can cause additional damage to the spine. Third, many car accidents involve a side impact, which puts tremendous pressure on the spine. Finally, when a car comes to a sudden stop, occupants can be thrown around violently, causing their heads and necks to snap backward or forward, leading to SCI.
In short, many factors contribute to SCI after a car crash. And unfortunately, these injuries can often be catastrophic, leading to paralysis or even death.
Which Car Accidents Can Result in Spinal Cord Injuries?
In general, any accident that results in a forceful impact to the spine can cause damage to the spinal cord. However, some accidents are more likely to result in spinal cord injuries than others. Rear-end collisions, for example, often cause the victim’s head to snap back suddenly, which can damage the vertebrae and nerves.
Head-on collisions are also particularly dangerous, as they can compress the spine and cause it to break. Rollover accidents can be especially dangerous as well, as they often result in the victim being thrown from the vehicle.
Common Types Of Spinal Injuries From Auto Accidents
One of the most common types of spinal injury from an auto accident is a fractured vertebrae. This occurs when one or more of the bones in the spine breaks. Fractured vertebrae can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and paralysis.
Another common type of spinal injury from an auto accident is a herniated or ruptured disc. This occurs when the gel-like center of a disc leaks out and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Herniated discs can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs.
Pinched nerves are another common type of spinal injury from an auto accident. This occurs when the nerves are compressed between two bones. Pinched nerves can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area.
Treatment
Fortunately, most spinal injuries from car accidents can be treated. The first step is to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. The doctor will diagnose your injury and recommend treatment. Treatment may include pain medication, physical therapy, surgery, or a combination of these.
St. Louis Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers
If you have been injured in a car accident, you might be entitled to compensation. The car injury attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm have 25 years of experience and are here to help! Give us a call 24/7 for a free case evaluation.
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