After you’re involved in an auto accident, there are a few issues that could lead to neck pain. Neck pain is often caused by whiplash, which is caused by jerking forward and back quickly during the collision, but it may also be a result of being struck by an object or cut by something.
Most people tense their muscles prior to a crash when they know one is about to occur, which then may lead to more significant injuries. Since the neck is vulnerable to injuries due to being made up of tiny bones, ligaments, muscles and tendons, you do need to be cautious about movement after a crash. If you have neck pain, there is a risk that you could have one of several injuries such as:
- A spinal disc fracture
- Spinal dislocation
- Torn ligaments or tendons
- Muscle damage
- Whiplash
- Damage to the facet joints
All of these and other injuries are possible, which is why you should consider seeking medical attention as soon as you can.
These symptoms are a sign that you need medical attention
There are all kinds of neck injury symptoms that may occur, and these may need medical attention:
- Stiffness
- Dizziness and nausea
- Muscle spasms in the neck
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
- Trouble moving the neck from side to side
- Trouble with memory
- Radiating or shooting pain
- Chill or fever sensations
These symptoms, as well as others like paralysis or trouble breathing, may be a sign that you need to have medical treatment as soon as possible.
Neck pain may end up being nothing more than a sprain, but since the spinal cord runs through this region and injuries at this level could cause significant or life-threatening symptoms, it’s very important to seek medical care as soon as you can.
At the scene of a car crash, stay calm and try to remain still. Go to the emergency room with the ambulance crew, and let the medical team know if you have neck pain or other symptoms. After you’re stable, you can consider looking into options like making a personal injury claim to cover the costs associated with your care and other financial losses.