Scoliosis is when a person’s spine is curved to the side in a “c” or “s” shape. You might remember being screened for scoliosis at schools, that’s because scoliosis commonly develops right before puberty. People can also be born with scoliosis as well as develop it after a traumatic injury.
Although some cases are mild, scoliosis can seriously impact the quality of life, it can limit mobility and cause severe back pain. Because the spine may curve into places it shouldn’t, it can also inflict serious damage to other vital organs including the lungs and the heart.
Scoliosis is tricky, in 8 out of 10 instances, doctors are unsure why the condition develops. Some cases may be hereditary or from traumatic injury, while others could be from birth defects or neuromuscular disorders.
Car accidents can cause scoliosis
In severe enough car accidents a person can develop scoliosis. Being back-ended causes the most back injuries out of any kind of accident. If a car is hit from behind at a high speed and the impact pushes your body forward fast, it can cause your spinal discs, which normally shock absorbers, to rupture and bulge, this is also known as a herniated disc.
It is also very common for pre-existing scoliosis to get worsened in a car accident.
Seek medical help after an accident
No matter how minor an accident may seem, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Small injuries from a car accident can easily turn into bigger, longer-lasting medical issues. For example, if you were in an accident and a disc or vertebrae in your spin got slightly injured, over time this could develop into traumatic scoliosis.
If caught early, the situation may be able to be remedied by wearing a back brace and physical therapy. If left to develop, serious injury may be sustained and intensive surgery is needed.
Contact a personal injury lawyer
Although cases involving scoliosis can get complicated, if you have been in an accident and have developed spine injuries, it may be important for you to file a claim to help cover medical expenses and damages from a negligent driver. Contact Larson and Gallivan Law PLC if you have been in an accident and need assistance filing a claim.