- Mill Creek Auto Accident Injury Clinic
- (425) 745-4430
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16212 Bothell Everett Hwy Suite E,
Mill Creek, WA 98012
According to a report by the US National Library of Medicine of the National Institutes of Health, “between 20% and 35% of patients with back pain exhibit a neuropathic pain component” (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2009). Receiving a back injury in an auto accident can unfortunately happen quite readily. Nonetheless, finding appropriate care is equally straightforward.
If persistent lower back pain plagues you, it might indicate a condition impacting the bone structure, spine, or the nerves connected to the spine. When faced with such discomfort, it’s imperative to prioritize an appointment with a chiropractor who is well-versed and seasoned in addressing lower back pain. Chiropractors possess the requisite expertise to manage numerous lower back-related conditions.
During an auto accident, even though seatbelts largely limit bodily movement, they don’t prevent internal shifts. This means that bones and organs might shift from their usual positions, potentially leading to painful aftermaths. For instance, in side collisions (often referred to as T-Bone accidents), the abrupt jolt can cause injuries such as dislocated or separated hips, broken or dislocated ribs, or herniated discs. These injuries can result in significant pain that persists for an extended period. Many victims of serious car accidents grapple with lasting pain and may remain traumatized for weeks post-incident.
Additionally, lower back pain can arise from damage to the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower spine, through the buttocks, and into one or both legs. Another potential injury from auto accidents is a lumbar herniated disc. This occurs when a disc in the lower spine protrudes and compresses the adjacent nerve root. Afflicted individuals may suffer intense lower back pain, weakness in the lower extremities, thigh numbness, and in some severe cases, even a loss of bladder or bowel control among other symptoms.
When confronted with a patient experiencing lower back pain, chiropractors typically opt for a thorough evaluation, which may include scrutinizing x-rays or MRI scans, as well as conducting a hands-on physical examination. Gauging the intensity and nature of pain can be particularly challenging for physicians, as it heavily relies on effective communication. Bridging a comprehensive dialogue about the pain between the doctor and patient within a limited timeframe can prove to be a daunting task.
In their assessment, doctors aim to ascertain whether the pain is sporadic or continuous, its character (like stabbing or burning sensations), potential triggers, its predominant occurrence times during the day, and its severity on a scale of 0-10. Once a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s experience is established, doctors delve into the history of prior treatments and current medications.
To gain deeper insights into the patient’s experience, some practitioners might recommend maintaining a pain diary to track and detail pain episodes. This aids them in discerning the patterns and nuances of the ailment. Effective evaluation ensures doctors can pinpoint the optimal treatment approach, ultimately alleviating the patient’s distress.
Don’t allow lower back pain to sideline you from life’s joys. A chiropractor could offer the relief you seek, tailored to your specific ailment. Book your complimentary consultation now.