Common Car Accident Injuries in Oak Ridge TN

Car accidents are some of the most common reasons a patient will require chiropractic care in Oak Ridge TN. Being in a car accident can be traumatic for the body in more ways than one. If you have been in a crash, you may be experiencing pain in a number of areas. The severity of any injury can vary, as well. Continue reading to learn more about the most common injuries sustained from car accidents.

Neck Injuries in Oak Ridge TN

When a car slams to a stop or comes into contact with another car, the jarring motion can cause neck strain, or whiplash. Whiplash occurs with hyperextension or hyperflexion of the neck, such as when your head jerks forward or back. This can stretch or tear the neck muscles and ligaments as a result. Additionally, the pressure of sudden neck movement upon a disc can cause a herniated or ruptured disc. Neck pain after an accident may not be present right away due to adrenaline or other factors, so be cautious and move carefully.

Head Injuries

The impact of a car crash can cause a number of different head or brain injuries. These injuries can range from a mild concussion to a traumatic brain injury, which can be life threatening. Injury occurs from external force to the head or shaking of the brain inside the cranium, and it is often present even without external signs like bruising or cuts. Unfortunately, head and brain injuries are all too common after a car accident. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have sustained injury to your head, as conditions can worsen if left untreated.

Back Injuries

The sudden force of impact can cause serious injury to the back. Such injuries include sprain or strain, fracture, disc injury, or injury to the thoracic or lumbar portion of the spine. As is the case with neck injury, pain is often not immediately present in the back after an accident. Therefore, it is important to move about with caution and seek medical attention to diagnose any injury. Back injuries can cause lasting pain and may require chiropractic care.