A Missed Compression Fracture Can Be Serious

Can Someone Have a Missed Compression Fracture?

A missed compression fracture has the potential to significantly impact someone’s quality of life. Back pain is one of the most common reasons why people visit the doctor. While many people who suffer from back pain might just think it is due to arthritis or a muscle strain, this discomfort might be a sign of something much more serious. Those who develop daily back discomfort following a traumatic accident might actually have a broken bone in their spine called a compression fracture.

If someone suffers a compression fracture in their back, it is possible this injury might be missed initially. An overlooked compression fracture might lead to serious complications, including nerve damage. In order to avoid this, it is key to understand how a compression fracture may present itself.

What is a Compression Fracture?

The spinal cord travels from the base of the skull down to the pelvis. Along its path, small bones called vertebrae provide important protection. In between the vertebrae are discs that act as cushions. Sometimes, these discs become compressed to the point that the vertebrae are rubbing against each other. If the vertebrae become compressed to an extreme extent, they might actually crack. This is called a compression fracture.

There are numerous ways in which someone might suffer a compression fracture. One of the most common mechanisms is a slip and fall injury. When someone falls, the back absorbs a lot of the force from the impact. This force can lead to a compression fracture.

In addition, many people suffer this injury in a motor vehicle accident. When someone snaps their neck and back in the forward direction, this can place a lot of stress on the vertebrae. This can lead to a serious fracture.

Risk Factors for a Compression Fracture

Some people are at a greater risk of suffering a compression fracture in a traumatic accident than others. For example, individuals who already have weak bones from osteoporosis are more likely to suffer a vertebral fracture. Another important risk factor is arthritis. Those with arthritis already have a significant amount of degradation from inflammation in their back. This weakens the vertebrae, making them more likely to fracture. Furthermore, those who smoke are also more likely to suffer a compression fracture. Smoking damages the blood vessels throughout the back, depriving the vertebrae of important nutrients they need to remain strong. Finally, those who have suffered an injury to their spinal discs, such as a herniated disc, are also more likely to suffer a compression fracture.

How Does a Missed Compression Fracture Happen?

There are a few reasons why a compression fracture might not be diagnosed initially. First, many compression fractures start off small in size. They are easy to miss on an x-ray. Next, some individuals may not have pain in their spine immediately after an accident. This lack of discomfort may cause some people to overlook the possibility of a bone fracture. In addition, some people may not associate back pain with an accident that might have happened in the past. Finally, many people with back pain do not seek medical care, leading to a missed compression fracture. In order to prevent this from happening, people who are involved in an auto accident need to make sure they see a doctor right away.

Trust a Compassionate Personal Injury Lawyer

If someone has suffered a serious back injury, this has the potential to impact them both emotionally and socially. An injury of the spine can lead to chronic pain, which might impact both personal and professional relationships. This can have a devastating effect on someone’s self-confidence and self-esteem. Fortunately, you and your family do not have to face this situation alone. A personal injury lawyer that has experience dealing with serious back injuries understands your situation and can assist you in a compassionate manner. Furthermore, a trained lawyer can help you defend your rights and recover compensation for your injuries.

Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer. A missed compression fracture can lead to significant complications, including chronic pain. If someone you love has been diagnosed with a serious back injury due to the negligence of another person or entity, please call me today at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.

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