Some injuries sustained in auto accidents only require conservative treatment methods like physical therapy or pain medication. On the other end of the spectrum are severe (often life-threatening) injuries that require immediate medical attention and surgery. Here are a few examples of car crash injuries that will usually require surgery.
Spine Injuries
The spinal column carries and protects nerves that travel from the brain throughout the rest of the body. These nerves allow us to feel and control all the different regions of our body (from the head all the way down to the feet). Sometimes car accidents cause direct force or trauma to the spine, knocking discs or vertebrae out of place, and potentially impacting nerves.
These injuries to the spine can include herniated discs, or bulging discs. Depending on the severity of the injury, these may be controlled with physical therapy and injections. Other times, minimally invasive surgery is necessary to relieve or prevent pain and potential loss of feeling in different areas of the body.
Knee Injuries
Knee injuries are common in car accidents, especially in head on crashes wherein the front of the car collapses in on the passenger’s legs. This can lead to broken bones or a torn ACL, which often requires surgery to fix if you hope to return to previous exercises and physical activities.
Shoulder Injuries
There is no question that seat belts save lives in motor vehicle crashes. That said, they can also result in injury as well (though much more minor injuries than would be sustained without a seat belt). The force or a car crash can throw your body against the seat belt and cause bruising and even torn ligaments. These often require surgery to effectively fix. We should state again that seat belts save lives and you should always wear one when riding in a car.
Pain Management at Revive MD
At Revive MD, we offer pain management solutions to patients dealing with a wide range of conditions and injuries. Dr. Alfonso Morales is a board-certified pain management physician with decades of experience treating patients throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding metro area. Contact us today at Revive MD to learn more about the services we provide and how we can help you effectively manage your pain. Our main clinic is located in St. Paul, but we provide care to patients throughout the Twin Cities area.