Insights on Car Accidents and Spinal Injuries: What You Need to Know

Most people fear getting in major car accidents, but even minor ones can be frightening. While you may walk away from a minor accident and feel unharmed, you might be suffering from an injury that manifests symptoms later on. This article will explain the basics of why this happens.

Adrenaline and Shock

When in danger, our bodies automatically produce a chemical called adrenaline. During a traumatic event, adrenaline raises the heart rate, opens up the airways, and allows more blood to flow to your muscles as a defense mechanism. Adrenaline and shock numb the pain immediately after an accident, making it feel like you’re unharmed when you’re really suffering from a broken bone or an injured spine. You may be able to walk away from the accident, but the back and neck pain will reveal itself once the initial reaction wears off.

Compounded Injury

A common injury in rear-ends accidents results when the head moves backward and then forward in quick succession. This is called whiplash and may cause either slight neck pain or no pain at all. However, more symptoms may manifest as time goes on, turning minor neck pain into an excruciating ordeal. This is due to a compensation mechanism in your body that causes your posture to change in order to avoid the pain. As this puts extra strain on other parts of your body, it can exacerbate back and neck pain and eventually cause other muscular or spinal injuries.

If you’ve recently been in an accident, then it’s important to get your spine checked out as soon as possible. At the Spine Institute of Nevada, we practice some of the most advanced spine care techniques for lumbar, thoracic, and cervical ailments. If you’re experiencing even the slightest neck or back pain, then call 702-239-3787 to set up an appointment with Dr. Perry.