SPINAL INJURIES

FRACTURES

The term “fracture” refers to a break in any bone in the body. Auto accident victims commonly suffer fractures in their arms and legs, but some of the more severe types of fractures caused by auto accidents are in the back (spinal vertebrae). Fractured vertebrae are unfortunately quite common for victims of serious auto accidents. Vertebrae are extremely important because they protect the spinal cord, which is one of the primary centers of all the body’s functions. The spine also provides shape and support for a person’s body. 

The spine has three main sections: the cervical spine (neck area), the thoracic spine (middle of the back) and the lumbar spine (lower back). The six main types of spinal fractures (and fractures in some other parts of the body) related to auto accidents are: 

• A transverse process fracture is a fracture often caused by an extreme blow to the back or excessive rotation of the spine. 

• Compression fractures in the spine are often small fractures that may be mistaken for general back pain associated with aging or other factors. However, these injuries can be debilitating, as well. 

• A comminuted fracture occurs when a spinal bone breaks apart into two or more fragments. 

• An open fracture, also known as a compound fracture, means that one or more broken bones is displaced and pierces the skin or protrudes from the skin. This often occurs as the result of a sudden impact, such as those common in auto accidents. 

• A closed fracture simply means the fractured bone does not break the skin. 

• A displacement fracture happens when a bone breaks into at least two parts and the pieces become misaligned as a result. 

Treatment options for spinal fractures include: 

• Physical therapy 
• Medication and vitamin supplements 
• Bracing Intermittent periods of rest 
• Surgery such as vertebroplasty (bone cement injection) or spinal fusion 

Source: Spine-Health 

In addition to the spine, these types of fractures and others can occur in other parts of the body, such as the arms and legs. If you are suffering from fracture(s) after an auto accident, you could be facing large medical bills, time off work, limited mobility, and pain and suffering.

 For help now, call us at 419-842-1166. The call and the advice are free.