According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, about one-third of all spinal cord injuries in the United States each year happen from car accidents. Many of these injuries require minimally invasive treatments with an orthopedic spine surgeon.
Here, Dr. Grigory Goldberg, a spine specialist in New Jersey, explains the possible role of spine surgery in treating car accident injuries.
What Is an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon?
As specialists, spinal surgeons successfully treat a variety of spine conditions, from trauma to spinal deformity. While orthopedic spinal surgeons perform surgery, this isn’t always the route they take. For example, it’s also possible that minimally invasive and even completely non-invasive treatments for spinal conditions would be more suitable.
Orthopedic spine surgeons complete thorough education before entering the field, including an undergraduate degree, four years in medical school, and a residency in orthopedic surgery. These specialists then move on to a fellowship in spine surgery, which takes several years to complete. That’s why an orthopedic spine surgeon brings unique expertise to treating spinal conditions, making them the go-to professionals for spinal column trauma.
Spinal Injuries From Car Accidents
One of the leading causes of spinal cord damage in New Jersey is car accidents. These auto accidents cause a variety of injuries to the spinal column, such as the following:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a cervical spine injury that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. The neck snaps forward and then backward in a rapid motion, straining the nerves and muscles. An estimated 841,000 whiplash injuries enter U.S. hospitals every year.
Lumbar Spine Injuries
While people often think of neck injuries in car accidents, lower back injuries are also very common. Typically, soreness in the lumbar spine happens due to direct impact during these collisions.
The Importance of Seeing a Spine Surgeon Quickly After a Car Accident
An orthopedic spine specialist plays a crucial role in treating car accident injuries to the spine. The quicker your diagnosis and treatment, the shorter the recovery process after your auto accident.
Diagnosing Your Injuries of the Spine
Were you in a recent car accident and are now feeling some pain in your neck or back? Where that pain is coming from matters, which is why an orthopedic spine surgeon will use several approaches when diagnosing your spinal injuries.
The first step is a complete physical examination and some time to discuss your symptoms. Next comes diagnostic imaging, of which there are several types that give clear enough images to spot spinal injuries. For example, X-rays show breaks or fractures in the bones, while CT scans and MRIs show a more detailed image of the bones and muscles.
The diagnostic tests also reveal the following spinal column issues:
- Slipped discs
- Pinched nerves
- Vertebral fractures
Executing a Unique Treatment Plan With Spinal Surgeon Support
Once your doctor determines the source of your pain, they’ll develop a personalized treatment plan. Injuries like whiplash improve with non-surgical physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, slipped discs or vertebral fractures may call for spinal surgery.
The following are some common surgical procedures that orthopedic spine surgeons may perform after car accidents:
- Spinal fusion: Connects multiple vertebrae using titanium hardware, stabilizing the spine and relieving pain.
- Laminectomy: Removes the back portion of the vertebra, taking pressure off the nerves.
- Discectomy: Removes a small portion of a herniated disc, relieving nerve compression.
Thanks to modern advancements in the medical field, surgical procedures may be minimally invasive and require almost no downtime.
Have you been searching for “spine surgeon New Jersey?” Schedule a consultation with Dr. Grigory Goldberg by filling out our online contact form now. Same-day appointments may be available.
Dr. Goldberg provides a wide range of spinal services, including accident assessments and degenerative spine disease treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding our spine surgery in New Jersey:
Is It Normal To Have Back Pain for Months After a Car Accident?
No, it is normal to have neck and back pain or stiffness for several months after a car accident. In this case, you should see a spine specialist like Dr. Grigory Goldberg right away.
What Causes Spinal Injuries During Car Accidents?
Car accidents result in spinal injuries in various ways, but according to a study of 33,015 injured front-seat occupants, the front seat has the worst risk factor.
How Much Does Treatment With a Spine Surgeon in New Jersey Cost?
The cost of treatment from a spine surgeon in New Jersey varies depending on your needs. However, our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection).
