What a back or neck injury can be
In a crash, the force can strain the muscles around the spine, or it can damage the bones, disks or nerves.
Some back and neck injuries heal with rest and therapy. Others need longer care. Your doctor is the right person to tell you which kind you have.
Signs of a possible spinal injury
- Neck pain, a stiff neck or a headache
- Numbness or tingling that spreads down an arm or leg
- Weakness or trouble walking
- Not being able to move the arms or legs
- Losing control of the bladder or bowels
- The head held in an unusual position
- Pale, clammy skin or seeming dazed
The 3-Point Claim Check
- 1
An injury
You were hurt, even if it didn't seem serious at first.
- 2
Someone else at fault
Another driver or company caused the crash.
- 3
Insurance coverage
There's a policy that may cover what happened.
When to get emergency care
Mayo Clinic advises calling 911 or getting emergency care if back pain follows an injury such as a car crash. The same goes for back pain with a fever, or with new loss of bladder or bowel control. Any of the spinal injury signs listed above also need emergency care right away.
If you think someone has hurt their spine, call 911. Keep their head and neck still and don't let them get up and walk. Don't move them unless they're in danger, like from a fire.
Signs to bring up with your doctor soon
- Pain that hasn't gotten better after a week
- Pain that is constant or severe, especially at night or when lying down
- Pain that spreads down one or both legs, mainly below the knee
- Weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs
- Swelling or a change in skin color on your back
Why records matter and what a claim can include
Back and neck injuries can take time to show their full effect. Records from your first visit, imaging, specialist visits and therapy help show that your pain started with the crash and how it changed over time. Try not to skip appointments, and tell each doctor about the accident.
A claim for a back or neck injury may include medical bills, therapy, injections or surgery if your doctor recommends them, pay you lost while you couldn't work, care you're likely to need later, and how the injury limits things like lifting, sitting, sleeping or caring for your family.
What to keep a record of
- Each visit, test, scan and therapy session
- Prescriptions and supplies like braces or heating pads
- Notes from your doctor about work limits or lifting limits
- Pay stubs or a note from your employer about missed time
- Tasks you've needed help with at home
It's free to check your claim, and you don't have to go ahead.