A car accident may result in a variety of different injuries, but one of the most likely areas that will experience trauma is the neck. Neck injuries range from minor sprains to severe spine complications.
It is important to be aware of some common neck injuries so you can seek treatment and compensation for them if you get hurt in an auto collision. Here are some neck injuries you may suffer from after a motor vehicle wreck.
Whiplash
One of the most well-known car accident injuries is whiplash. This refers to a sprain or strain that occurs when ligaments or muscles stretch and tear. You may have whiplash if you exhibit any of these symptoms after a crash:
- Neck pain
- Neck stiffness
- Less range of motion in the neck
- Pain or tenderness in the upper back, shoulders or arms
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Some people with whiplash may recover in a couple months, but others suffer from chronic neck pain.
Herniated disc
Car accident trauma may cause a cervical disc to slip or rupture. When this injury occurs, the disc may bulge, crack open or break into pieces. Common symptoms of a herniated neck disc are pain, weakness or numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms, chest or hands. A herniated disc may also irritate nerves in your spine, causing tingling in your legs.
Related injuries
Neck injuries may not occur on their own. If your neck sustains damage in any way, it is likely other parts of your body are hurt as well. The most common injuries associated with neck problems are back and head injuries. You may suffer from spinal cord damage or a traumatic brain injury at the same time.
These injuries can cause serious discomfort and even disability. Make sure you get medical assistance as soon as possible to deal with these injuries.