How to Manage Back Pain After a Car Accident

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a car accident occurs every 13 minutes in the United States. Although new regulations and advancing technology are making cars safer, car accidents continue to be a major cause of death and serious injury.

Many of these accidents lead to debilitating back pain. Addressing back pain following an accident is critical for preventing long-term complications. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible to assess your injury.

Here’s a guide to managing back pain after a car accident.

The Causes of Back Pain Following a Car Accident

There are many types of injuries that can lead to back pain after a car accident. A common injury is whiplash. This can occur if your head jerks forward and backward in a crash. It causes intense strain on the neck and upper back.

Another common car accident injury is a herniated disc. This occurs when the cushioning between the vertebrae ruptures and exerts pressure on the nerves.

The sudden impact of an accident can affect the spine. This trauma can lead to spinal misalignment or fracture. A car accident may lead to muscle strains, sprains, or chronic pain after a collision.

Symptoms of accident-related back injuries include:

• Limited range of motion
• Stiffness
• Radiating pain down the arms or legs
• Muscle spasms 

After a car accident, pay attention to your symptoms and seek medical attention right away to avoid further complications.

The Value of Seeking Medical Attention After an Accident

It is possible to experience a car accident injury and not feel any pain. After an accident, you should see a medical professional, even if you don’t think you’ve sustained an injury. 

Some injuries don’t present symptoms right away. It may be hours, days, or even weeks before you experience symptoms. A medical professional can assess your condition and recommend proper treatment.

There are a variety of medical professionals who treat back pain after a car accident, including chiropractors, primary care doctors, orthopedic specialists, and physical therapists. Depending on the extent of your injuries, you may be referred to one of these specialists for evaluation and treatment.

Diagnostic tests, including X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans help identify the cause of your pain. These imaging tests help your doctor assess the injury to the spine or surrounding structures and determine the best treatment options for car accident injury recovery.

Medications and Back Pain Relief 

For some people, medications play a vital role in managing back or neck pain after a car accident. Depending on the extent of your pain, a medical professional may prescribe muscle relaxants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective in managing light to moderate back pain. Take only the recommended dosage and talk to a healthcare professional if you’re taking any other medications or have an underlying medical condition.

Pain medication has side effects. NSAIDs can lead to stomach ulcers or kidney problems if you take them for an extended period. Muscle relaxers may lead to drowsiness or dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive. Discuss the potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

Stretching and Exercise for Back Pain

Stretching and exercise are good for the body and are especially beneficial after a car accident. Gentle stretching reduces muscle tension and improves flexibility. Exercises that strengthen your core provide spinal support and help alleviate pain.

Knee-to-chest, cat-camel, and other stretches can help relieve back pain. These gentle stretches elongate the body, relieve tension, and improve mobility.

It’s important to begin slowly with rehabilitation after a car crash. Start with gentle movements and increase the intensity as the pain eases. Be sure to listen to your body and stop if an exercise is causing any pain or discomfort.

Regular exercise and stretching can provide post-accident back pain relief. Strengthening muscles that support the spine and improving flexibility may reduce your risk for future injuries and help you maintain a healthy back.

Chiropractic Care for Back Pain Relief

Chiropractic care can be beneficial after a car accident. A chiropractor can evaluate your injury and the extent of your pain. They use manual manipulation techniques to alleviate pain and realign the spine. They may use other techniques like electrical stimulation and ultrasound to enhance healing.

Massage therapy is another effective treatment for back and neck pain. Deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy help to relax tense muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation. Massage promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which can ease pain after a car accident.

In some circumstances, massage therapy or chiropractic care may not be suitable treatments following a car accident. In these cases, a chiropractor can refer you to another healthcare professional.

Surgery for Back Pain Relief After a Car Accident

For some people, surgery is necessary for back pain relief following a car accident. This is typically for those who sustain severe injuries that don’t respond to more conservative treatments.

There are various surgeries your doctor may recommend, including spinal fusion, laminectomy, or diseconomy, depending on the extent and condition of the injury.

There are factors to consider when making the decision to have back surgery. These include the severity of your back pain, the impact on your day-to-day life, and the potential for improvement with more conservative treatments. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best path forward for you.

Managing Back Pain After a Car Accident

Car accidents are an unfortunate fact of life. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may experience nagging or chronic back pain. If you’re looking for relief after a car accident, consider chiropractic care.

At Veeva, our clients are family, and we’re dedicated to bringing you back to full health. We provide personalized chiropractic treatment to help alleviate your pain and restore your strength and mobility

If you’re trying to manage back pain after a car accident, we’re here to help.

Contact Veeva today to schedule an appointment.