In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the potential causes of lower back pain that may exist during car accidents. While many people tend to associate these accidents most closely with upper back and neck pain, lower back pain is often just as large a risk – and just as significant a post-accident treatment area to consider.
At Peterson Chiropractic, we’re proud to offer a wide range of auto accident injury chiropractic services, including lower back pain relief for those who are suffering from it. While whiplash and other conditions we discussed in part one are often causes of such pain, another grouping known as “discogenic” injuries – related to the spinal discs, where pain is mostly felt in the lower spine area – often plays a big role. Here are a few specific discogenic injuries that might occur during a car accident, plus how chiropractic care, massage therapy and related treatments will help.
Spinal Stenosis
Stenosis is a term that refers to narrowing of one of several channels within the body unexpectedly, and spinal stenosis is when this takes place in the bone channel that holds both the spinal nerves and the spinal cord. The most common cause of spinal stenosis in adults is actually the normal aging process, but it can be triggered by a car accident or other significant bodily trauma in some cases.
When such trauma occurs, it’s possible for a disc in the spine to rupture, or for a bone fragment to become loose. Either the disc or the bone fragment may then enter parts of the spinal canal they are not supposed to be in, placing pressure on the nerves or cord and leading to significant pain. Luckily, proper chiropractic care will help deal with spinal stenosis.
Disc Herniation
Another disc-related injury is disc herniation, where the inner portion of the disc protrudes out through its outer casing. In many situations, the disc then contacts nerves outside the casing, causing pain.
Lumbar Sprains
The term “lumbar” refers to the lower part of the spine, and lumbar sprains can take place due to several different kinds of force on the back – including car accidents. When the back is moved at unusual angles and forces, its ligaments, muscles and tendons can be stretched out too far, causing a sprain or strain. The proper diagnosis and treatment through professionals is easy to obtain for a lumbar sprain, luckily.
Degenerative Disorders
Finally, a broad group here that might require significant long-term chiropractic and other care encompasses several degenerative spinal disc disorders. While these all relate in some way to the spine wearing down, they can also be triggered or exacerbated by a car accident. Obtaining a proper diagnosis and treatment for any such condition is vital for preventing long-term damage.
For more on the potential causes of lower back pain from car accidents, or to learn about any of our auto accident or whiplash chiropractor services, speak to the staff at Peterson Chiropractic today.