A fracture of the spine or fractured vertebrae typically occurs because of a high-impact car crash in California and across the nation. A fracture of the spine and herniated discs can be caused by the seatbelt putting pressure on the body during an impact. Other causes of fractured vertebrae include falling from great heights, sporting injuries, acts of violence, and other miscellaneous activities.
Who is affected by spinal fractures?
- Car accidents account for approximately 45% of spinal fractures.
- Falls account for approximately 20% of spinal fractures.
- Sports account for approximately 15% of spinal fractures.
- Acts of violence (like gunshots) account for approximately 15% of spinal fractures.
- Other miscellaneous activities account for 5% of spinal fractures.
Men more commonly sustain vertebrae fractures in their lower and mid back regions than women. In fact, recent studies have shown that men are four times more likely to sustain a traumatic spinal fracture than women.
The majority of people who suffer from fractured vertebrae are between the ages of 18 and 25. However, senior citizens also are prone to spinal fractures due to osteoporosis, weakened bones, and spinal tumors.
What are the symptoms?
A car crash can result in mild injuries, such as whiplash or more severe injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, spinal cord injury, nerve damage, paralysis, and more. Most fractures occur to the lower back region, and symptoms of spinal fracture include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Muscle spasm
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injury
Not all fractured vertebrae and spinal fractures produce a spinal cord injury. Sometimes, the fractured vertebrae can be corrected with the use of a brace and heal within two to three months. If you have suffered a spinal fracture or fractured vertebrae in a Southern California car crash, then you should speak with a knowledgeable Orange County personal injury attorney at the Law Office of John P. Burns by calling (877) 320-1338.