Can a car accident cause herniated discs or disc injuries?

Miguel Colan
March 26, 2025
Ctrehabchiro

Yes, a car accident can cause herniated disks and other intervertebral disk injuries . These types of injuries are common in crashes, especially rear-end or side collisions , due to the sudden impact to the spine.

How can a car accident cause a herniated disk?
During an accident, the body is abruptly thrown forward and backward (whiplash) or may receive a direct impact to the spine. This puts extreme pressure on the intervertebral disks, which can lead to:

🔴 Herniated disc : This occurs when the inner core of the disc shifts, causing severe pain and limited movement .
🔴 Disc protrusion : The disc bulges without completely rupturing, but it can cause discomfort and pressure on the nerves.
🔴 Tear of the annulus fibrosus : Small tears in the outer layer of the disc, causing inflammation and pain.
🔴 Nerve compression : The affected disc can press on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in different parts of the body.

Symptoms of a disc injury after an accident

Disc injuries can take days or weeks to manifest, so it’s crucial to pay attention to symptoms such as:

✔ Neck, back, or lower back pain that worsens with movement.
✔ Tingling or numbness in the arms, legs, hands, or feet.
✔ Muscle weakness or loss of strength in extremities.
✔ Headaches and dizziness (if the injury is in the cervical spine).
✔ Difficulty standing, walking, or performing normal movements .

If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, seek medical attention immediately.

How can chiropractic help with a disc injury?

At Connecticut Rehab and Chiropractic Center in Hartford, CT , we offer specialized chiropractic treatments for disc injuries caused by car accidents , helping patients:

✅ Reduce inflammation and relieve pain without medication.
✅ Restore mobility and strengthen the spine .
✅ Apply spinal decompression therapy to relieve pressure on the discs.
✅ Prevent unnecessary surgeries with a natural treatment.

Back pain after an accident in Connecticut? Don’t ignore it.
At Connecticut Rehab and Chiropractic Center , we offer free evaluations for car accident victims.

Call now and schedule your free appointment. Recover with expert chiropractic care!

RELATED ARTICLES

Car Accident Aftermath: What You Need to Know for a Full Recovery

Car Accident Aftermath: What You Need to Know for a Full Recovery

Being in a car accident is a shocking experience, not only because of the moment of impact, but also because of the potential injuries and after-effects that can appear days, weeks, or even months later. As a chiropractic specialist specializing in car accident...

Neck pain after a car accident: causes, symptoms, and treatment

Neck pain after a car accident: causes, symptoms, and treatment

If you experience pain or stiffness in your neck after a car accident , you may have suffered an injury that requires medical attention. Even if the pain doesn't appear immediately, it's important not to ignore it , as it could be a sign of a more serious injury. In...

Did you like this article?

Are you suffering from pain or discomfort? Don’t ignore your body’s signals. At Connecticut Rehab and Chiropractic Center , our team of professionals is ready to assess your condition and offer the right treatment for your recovery. Don’t let pain limit your quality of life. Contact us today and take the first step toward wellness.