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WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR SPINE

What happens to your spine in a car accident?

Understanding the Basic Mechanics

Hyperextension injuries occur when the joints are forced to extend beyond their natural anatomical limits, causing potential damage to the discs, ligaments, muscles, and sometimes the bones involved. In the context of the cervical spine (neck), this typically happens to people during rear-end vehicle collisions, often referred to as “whiplash.”

If you have been injured in a car accident it is important that you seek immediate medical care. Afterwards, there are treatment options available for car accident recovery if you have suffered whiplash, neck injuries, spine injuries or other accident-related injuries.

Phases of Injury

Initial Impact: At the moment of impact, such as a car hitting another from behind, the torso is pushed forward. Due to inertia, the head lags initially, then whips back as the neck extends.

Hyperextension: The head and upper neck arch backward beyond their normal limits, while the lower neck moves forward, creating an unnatural curve in the cervical spine. This can strain or tear ligaments and muscles at the back of the neck.

Recoil: Following the hyperextension, the head and neck may then rapidly move forward into hyperflexion, compounding the stress on the cervical spine structures.

Tissue Damage

  • Ligaments: The ligaments that stabilize the spine can be overstretched or torn, leading to instability.
  • Muscles: Muscles may be strained or suffer tears from the rapid and forceful movements.
  • Intervertebral Discs: The discs between vertebrae may herniate or bulge, pressing on nerves and causing pain or numbness.
  • Nerves: The spinal nerves can get compressed or irritated at the points where they exit the spinal column, leading to neurological symptoms like pain, tingling, or weakness along the arms or hands.

Long-Term Effects

If not properly treated, hyperextension injuries can lead to chronic problems. These might include persistent pain, reduced range of motion, headaches, and even neurological issues due to nerve damage. Rehabilitation often involves physical therapy to strengthen supportive muscles, improve flexibility, and stabilize the spine.

Understanding and treating hyperextension injuries require a detailed assessment of the biomechanics involved and the extent of injury. Prompt medical attention is crucial to minimize the risk of long-term damage and ensure appropriate therapeutic strategies are employed. Be cautious while driving in Spring, The Woodlands, Tomball, and Cypress areas because there are frequent accidents. In the unfortunate even you or a loved one are injured in a car accident, the team at Spring Physical Therapy have extensive experience in treating such injuries. If you have been injured in an accident, call us today.

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