The impact that occurs during a car crash can lead to significant damage to the body. One area of the body that’s particularly vulnerable is the neck, which can suffer damage if the head flings around.
Rear-end collisions, even at low speeds, can lead to serious neck injuries. Most neck injuries are painful. While some may heal, that healing may take time. Other injuries will result in lifelong negative effects.
Whiplash
Whiplash happens when the neck is suddenly forced backward and then forward, often resembling the motion of a cracking whip. This rapid movement strains the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the neck.
Symptoms can include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, shoulder pain and even memory issues or trouble concentrating. Whiplash might sound minor, but for some people it leads to chronic discomfort or prolonged mobility issues. It’s not always visible on standard imaging tests, which can make diagnosis and documentation more complicated.
Cervical spine damage
The cervical spine is made up of the seven vertebrae in the neck, along with discs and nerves that run through the spinal cord. An accident can cause more than just soft tissue strain—it can result in herniated discs, fractured vertebrae or nerve compression.
These injuries often cause radiating pain down the arms, numbness, tingling or even weakness. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to stabilize the spine or relieve pressure on nerves. Left untreated, cervical spine damage can lead to permanent nerve injury or chronic pain.
Victims of these types of injuries need immediate medical attention. Prompt and comprehensive care can improve the chance of an optimal recovery; however, it can be costly. Those victims may choose to seek compensation from the negligent driver to help them offset the costs associated with the injury.