Car crashes can result in serious damage to the spine, affecting anyone from drivers to passengers. The violent forces involved in collisions often cause the body to move in unnatural ways, placing tremendous stress on the vertebrae, discs, and surrounding tissues. Spinal injuries range from mild strains to severe trauma that can lead to short- and long-term disability.

Understanding the types of spinal injuries that commonly occur in car crashes can help you recognize the symptoms and fight to protect your right to fair compensation.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A “herniated disc” occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer, often pressing on nearby nerves. This injury is common in rear-end collisions where the sudden impact forces the spine to compress and extend rapidly. Symptoms typically include sharp pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs, depending on which disc is affected. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medication, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the nerves.

What Is Whiplash?

“Whiplash” is one of the most frequently reported injuries following car crashes, particularly in rear-end collisions. This injury occurs when the head and neck snap forward and backward suddenly, straining the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the cervical spine. The symptoms often include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, shoulder pain, and reduced range of motion. While many cases resolve within weeks with rest and physical therapy, some individuals experience chronic pain that persists for months or years.

What Are Spinal Fractures?

“Spinal fractures” involve breaks or cracks in one or more vertebrae and can result from high-impact collisions. These injuries range from compression fractures, where the bone collapses on itself, to more severe breaks that may threaten spinal cord integrity. Symptoms include severe back pain, difficulty standing or walking, and potential numbness or paralysis if the spinal cord is compromised. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture, ranging from bracing and rest to surgical stabilization.

What Is Spinal Cord Damage?

“Spinal cord damage” represents one of the most serious consequences of car crashes, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. This injury occurs when trauma to the spine damages the nerve bundle running through the vertebral column. “Complete” injuries result in total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site, while “incomplete” injuries may allow some function to remain. Medical intervention focuses on preventing further damage, managing symptoms, and rehabilitation to maximize remaining function.

What Is a Facet Joint Injury?

“Facet joints” are small stabilizing joints located between vertebrae that allow the spine to bend and twist. Car crashes can damage these joints through sudden impact, leading to inflammation and pain. Individuals with facet joint injuries often experience localized back or neck pain that worsens with movement, particularly when bending backward or twisting. Treatment typically includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and injections to reduce the inflammation and pain.

What Are Soft-Tissue Injuries?

“Soft-tissue injuries” affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons supporting the spine and are extremely common in car crashes. These injuries occur when the sudden forces of a collision cause these tissues to stretch, tear, or become inflamed. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, muscle spasms, and restricted movement in the affected area. While often less severe than fractures or disc injuries, soft-tissue damage can still cause significant discomfort and may take weeks or months to heal fully with appropriate rest and rehabilitation.

Get a Skilled Albuquerque Car Crash Lawyer at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC to Fight for Your Rights Today

An Albuquerque car crash lawyer at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC has significant experience representing clients with spinal injuries caused by car crashes. For a free consultation, call today at 505-900-3559 or contact us online. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.