Causes of Neck and Lower Back Pain After a Car Accident

Car accidents, even those occurring at low speeds, can lead to serious injuries, particularly in the neck and lower back. The body isn’t built to withstand the kind of force generated during a crash, and as a result, these areas are especially vulnerable. Understanding the causes of neck and lower back pain after an accident, as well as how to address it, is essential for anyone recovering from such injuries.

Common Causes of Neck and Lower Back Pain from a Car Accident

After a car accident, several types of injuries can cause persistent neck and lower back pain. Here are some of the most common injuries to be aware of:

Whiplash

One of the most common causes of neck pain after an accident is whiplash. This occurs when the head and neck are forcefully thrown forward and then snapped back, often resulting in muscle sprains, ligament tears, and sometimes disc injuries. Whiplash injuries can also affect the spinal column, leading to ongoing pain and stiffness. If left untreated, whiplash can cause chronic discomfort that significantly impacts your quality of life.

Herniated or Bulging Discs

When the impact force pushes the vertebrae out of alignment, it can cause the discs between the bones in your spine to bulge or rupture. This is known as a herniated disc, which can cause intense pain, numbness, or tingling, especially in the lower back. In severe cases, herniated discs can even press on nerves, which may lead to long-term mobility issues or nerve damage.

Facet Joint Injuries

The facet joints in the spine help maintain the motion and stability of your neck and back. After a car accident, these joints may become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. In some cases, facet joint pain can mimic muscle strain, so it can be difficult to diagnose without further testing, such as an MRI or a nerve block injection.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when the small spaces in the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. While spinal stenosis can occur as a natural part of aging, trauma from a car accident can aggravate or accelerate the condition. Symptoms may include chronic pain, weakness, or numbness, particularly in the lower back or legs.

Lumbar Spine Injuries

The lumbar spine, or lower back, comprises five vertebrae that are especially vulnerable to injury in a car accident. The trauma from the impact can stretch or tear the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the lower back, causing pain and swelling. If the injury is severe, it can lead to limited mobility or chronic pain.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Although less common, spinal cord injuries can result from severe car accidents. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to symptoms ranging from pain and tingling to full paralysis. Spinal cord injuries are serious and require immediate medical attention. If you suspect a spinal cord injury, seek help right away.

Delayed Pain After a Car Accident: What It Means

It’s important to note that neck and lower back pain may not always be immediately apparent after an accident. The adrenaline rush following a crash can mask the pain; symptoms may take hours, days, or weeks to manifest. This delayed pain can sometimes be a sign of serious injury, such as a herniated disc or spinal damage.

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to car accidents, is generally two years from the accident date (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2). If you wait too long to seek medical attention or pursue a claim, you may lose the ability to receive compensation for your injuries. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

How Neck and Lower Back Pain Can Affect Your Daily Life

Neck and lower back pain can profoundly impact one’s life, especially when the pain is persistent or chronic. Daily activities such as sitting at a desk, lifting groceries, or sleeping can become challenging and painful.

The pain may also affect your ability to work or care for your family, leading to lost wages and a reduced quality of life. In some cases, ongoing pain can result in long-term disability, requiring extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, or even surgery.

Diagnosing and Treating Post-Accident Neck and Back Pain

If you experience neck or lower back pain after a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.

Common diagnostic tools for neck and back injuries include:

• Physical exams
• X-rays
• MRI scans
• CT scans
• Nerve conduction studies

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury but may include:

• Pain management (such as medication or injections)
• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Surgical intervention (for more serious injuries)

Can You Seek Compensation for Neck and Back Injuries?

If you were injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. In New Jersey, the law allows you to seek compensation under the New Jersey Personal Injury Protection (PIP) system, which provides coverage for medical expenses regardless of fault.

Suppose your injuries are severe or you face long-term complications. In that case, working with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you deserve is important. Notable past cases, like 

Injured in a Car Accident? Get Legal Help Today

If you’ve suffered neck or lower back pain due to a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. A skilled attorney can help you navigate New Jersey’s legal system, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

Contact Rosengard Law Group today for a free consultation. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an injury can have, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.