Injuries sustained in automobile accidents can vary from minor bumps and bruises to broken bones, and in some cases, amputation. In case of serious injury, emergency treatment may be needed immediately, especially if there's a broken bone, head trauma, or internal bleeding. Whiplash is a common term used in connection with auto accidents and most often occurs when there's an impact to a vehicle, usually from the rear, and your neck is 'whipped' back and forth. Nerves are often injured during this process and can cause radiation of pain to your arms or legs, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, or other symptoms. If left untreated, whiplash can contribute to many different symptoms and health problems, such as arthritis in the spine. Auto accidents can also cause injury and pain in other areas of your spine. Many patients complain of associated shoulder pain, upper and lower back pain, and pain to the hips and legs. When multiple areas of your spine are involved, the condition is more complex, but can often be treated with medication, physical therapy, or chiropractic care. In addition to common injuries suffered in auto accidents, airbag injuries have become increasingly prevalent. Although airbags can prevent many automobile injuries, the rapid deployment of the bag can be harmful, especially to children.
