If you have gone through a car accident, you know how traumatic and painful the experience is. To add to that, most people end up with serious injuries, whether detected immediately or diagnosed months or years later.
Spine injuries are one of the most serious injuries you can sustain, and unfortunately, they are all too common in car accidents.
Symptoms of a spine injury
While some symptoms of a spine injury may seem obvious, others do not and can surprise people. Below are some signs that you may have suffered a spine injury and require medical assistance as soon as possible.
In addition, always remember that for car accident injuries, it is advisable to have a personal injury attorney who can advocate for you and protect your interests.
Pain in the neck or the back
One of the most common symptoms of a spinal injury is pain in the neck or the back. The pain can be mild, moderate, severe, localized, or radiate to other body parts, such as your thigh and leg. If you experience pain in your neck or back after a car accident, seek medical treatment. You may experience delayed symptoms of back pain, which can become evident a few days after your accident. If you do, go to the Emergency Room or Clinic as soon as it starts.
Numbness and tingling
A “pins and needles” or numb sensation in an extremity, such as your hands, arms, legs, or feet, can signify nerve damage or pressure to the spinal cord, which may result from a herniated disc or another spinal injury that your doctor has not yet identified.
Muscle weakness
This is a lesser-known symptom but an important one. If you suddenly begin feeling a weakness in your limbs, whether it comes and goes or you feel it all the time, it could be a sign of a serious spinal injury. Any difficulty walking or lifting objects should be disclosed to your medical provider immediately.
Loss of bladder control
Another lesser-known symptom, a loss of bladder control following a car accident, is a critical sign of a spine injury. The spinal cord plays a vital role in controlling these bodily functions, and an accident can lead to severe injury.
Difficulty breathing
While you may not associate breathing with your spinal cord, people with injuries to the cervical spine can experience difficulty breathing. This is a medical emergency, and immediate medical intervention is necessary.
Recognizing the signs of a spinal injury after a car accident is not always obvious, and symptoms can take time to manifest. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or anything else out of the ordinary, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately.
In addition, you might want to keep your attorney informed on the process as you go along, for they can guide you if you decide to seek compensation for your injuries.