With respect to automotive injuries, research has been instrumental to improving our understanding of neck complaints. Below are 2 radiographs of the cervical (neck) spine of different individuals facing to the left.
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The natural curve (lordosis) that is present in both of these individuals is typical of a neck that has never had any significant injuries (such as whiplash injury). In fact, statistically, 93% of people who have never had neck trauma have a cervical curve similar to this.
A common outcome of auto injuries is ligament and/or muscular injury of the neck. The resulting muscle spasms and injury cause a loss of this normal cervical lordosis, with associated alteration of normal biomechanics of the neck. Compare the radiographs below of individuals with neck injuries related to automobile crashes.
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Occasionally, when injuries are more severe, the normal cervical lordosis is not only lost, but a reversal of the curve occurs.
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If you are involved in a crash. Not only is it important to seek the appropriate treatment to help restore you to pre-crash condition, but to properly diagnose your condition, and communicate your injuries to you and insurance companies. If you've been in a crash, contact us immediately so you can start of the road to feeling like yourself again.