What to Do After a Broken Spine From a Car Accident
Are you or someone close to you suffering from a broken spine after a car accident?
Broken spines come with devastating and life-changing results and should be treated immediately. Though many broken spines go unnoticed, they can cause significant problems down the road.
Knowing what to do after a broken spine can make the difference between a full recovery, or irreparable damage long term.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!
Assessing the Severity of Your Spinal Injury
After a broken spine from a car accident, it is important to assess the severity of your spinal injury. Initial pain and swelling should be addressed with appropriate medical treatment, which may include finding spinal surgeons right away.
Once the immediate needs of the injury have been addressed, it is important to monitor the progress of the recovery. X-ray and MRI scans can help evaluate the location and severity of the damage and can provide guidance for future care and recovery.
Preparing for the Treatment of a Broken Spine
After the broken spine from a car accident is diagnosed, it is important to begin preparing for the treatment of the injury. In most cases, one of the following is required to immobilize the spine and protect it from further injury:
- cast
- brace
- back stabilization
Physiotherapy and other forms of specialized treatments can also be used to reduce inflammation and increase mobility. Pain medications might also be prescribed to help manage the pain associated with a broken spine.
Identifying the Right Healthcare Team for Your Recovery
If you have had a broken spine from a car accident, it is important to take time to identify the right healthcare team for your recovery. An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor that specializes in:
- muscular
- skeletal
- nervous system issues
Physiotherapists can help you to regain some strength, with specific exercises and machinery designs to help in recovery. Finally, a spinal surgeon specialist can help to provide advice on how to move more easily and how to manage pain.
Exploring Pain Management Strategies
The pain of a broken spine as a result of a car accident can be overwhelming and a significant challenge during the recovery process. Pain management strategies can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help you gain function, such as:
- physical therapy
- massage
- exercise
Applying cold and heat to the affected area and taking over-the-counter medications can also help to manage pain. These techniques can help to:
- reduce inflammation
- relieve muscle spasms
- reduce pain
It is also important to use relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing to reduce pain and tension.
Proactively Working Towards Your Physical Rehabilitation Plan
After suffering a broken spine from a car accident, it is vital to proactively work toward your physical rehabilitation plan. Depending on the severity of the break, surgery may be necessary prior to starting physical therapy.
During physical therapy, it is important to stay consistent with your exercises in order to build up strength and flexibility. Set achievable goals for yourself and consistently meet those goals in order to stay motivated.
Explore More About Broken Spine Today
Overall, after a broken spine from a car accident, the patient will need to work hard with a physical therapist or rehabilitative specialist to regain strength and flexibility.
With their help and guidance, you can properly recover and rebuild.
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