Why Do Minor Auto Accidents Cause Back and Spine Injuries?

An anatomically complex structure that provides complete support for the human body, the back and neck are comprised of a dense network of sensitive nerves, hundreds of small bones and flexible ligaments, tendons and muscles. When you are unexpectedly struck by another car, your back and neck suffer hyperflexion and hyperextension of tissues and nerves. This violent, forward and backward "whipping" motion can inflict serious damage to the back and neck resulting in whiplash, compression fractures or pinched nerves.

Can I Get a Herniated Disc from an Auto Accident?

Yes. Herniated discs occur when the impact of one car hitting another injures the spongy pads separating spinal vertebrae. Pain, weakness and numbness results from the discs' inability to protect nerve endings that extends into the spinal column. Additionally, lower back disc injuries commonly cause sciatica, a serious disorder associated with severe and frequently debilitating shooting pains that limit mobility.

What is a Pinched Nerve?

Victims of auto accidents often suffer pinched nerves, or cervical radiculopathy, when cervical nerves supplying sensation to the neck, arms and shoulders are irritated by a ruptured disc or bone spurs. Radiating pain, numbness and weakness into corresponding areas are classic symptoms of pinched nerves that ultimately worsen unless treated holistically with chiropractic massage therapy and subluxation techniques provided at Dr. Phillips Chiropractic Nutrition and Wellness Clinic. 

Why Should I Visit a Chiropractor After an Auto Accident?

General medical practitioners do not specialize in understanding and evaluating the biomechanics of the back, neck and spine. Chiropractors have in-depth knowledge of how the musculoskeletal and central nervous system interact to provide optimal functioning of all body systems. Chiropractic treatments not only address and treat the root cause of back, spine or neck injuries resulting from car accidents but also offer complementary therapies that reduce your risk of suffering stress-related diseases reinvigorate energy levels and improve your overall quality of life.

If you were recently in a car accident, contact our San Antonio chiropractor Dr. Phillips to make an appointment today for a complete assessment of possible injuries.