Since humans invented cars, humans have crashed them.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,250,837 vehicle crashes happened in 2020. If involved in an accident, the chances of dealing with a neck injury significantly rise.
Common neck injuries caused by an accident
While many people associate whiplash with a car accident, the neck may sustain additional injuries. The force of the impact has the potential to make vertebrae become dislocated or intervertebral discs in the spine to slip. Neck strains or sprains, pinched nerves and stiff muscles also top the list of common injuries. These often come with muscle spasms and the inability to move normally. Unfortunately, some accidents result in a broken or fractured neck bone. This type of injury requires immediate medical attention.
Long-term effects of neck injuries
In many cases, people simply live with the stiffness and swelling, assuming that the symptoms will eventually go away. Considering that some neck injuries, such as whiplash, take time to develop, it makes it even easier to avoid seeking attention. Unfortunately, doing so creates a high risk of dealing with chronic pain down the road. Many neck injuries lead to the development of frequent headaches, constant pain and cognitive issues. When all of that combines, it increases the chances of developing anxiety and depression. If that happens, it may lead to inactivity, difficulties at work and other unexpected challenges.
Even though the crash may seem insignificant, it may come with hidden long-term effects. Seeking medical attention regardless of the size of the crash helps minimize the chances of that happening.
