By Pendergast Law on January 9, 2012
Low back pain is the second most common neurological condition in the United States, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Men and women are equally affected by low back pain, and they are more likely to develop the condition between the ages of 30 and 50. Car accidents are a major source of low back pain.
In a car accident, the body may be thrown violently forward, backward, or to the side, causing a number of different auto accident injuries. Although wearing a seat belt can decrease the damage caused by this force, it is often enough to cause stress to the complex structures in the low back. Muscles, nerves, soft tissue, spinal vertebrae, and the cartilage discs that cushion the vertebrae can all be affected. Some of these structures, especially the discs and soft tissue, may take a long time to heal or may be permanently damaged, especially in older people.
Low back pain is often treated without surgery. Anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants may be prescribed. Patients may also see a physical therapist who can help build muscle strength and teach pain-relieving techniques. Often, rest is required in order to avoid re-injuring the back or making it worse. If the condition is particularly severe, surgery may be required, but it is usually not used until non-surgical methods have been tried and proved ineffective. In many cases, low back pain becomes a chronic condition, and a person who has it may need to change or limit many life activities to accommodate it.
Car accidents can cause any number of injuries, including serious back injuries. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car crash, the experienced Seattle car accident lawyers at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. can help. For a free and confidential consultation, call us today at 888-539-9211.