Falls are responsible for serious injuries and can cause death. Every year, people suffer from slip and fall accidents in public and private spaces. For some people, the injuries can be life-altering.
Back injuries are a huge concern, and Cedars Sinai explains there are a few different types of injuries that you could suffer after a fall.
Herniated disc
A herniated disc occurs when a disc in the spinal column leaks fluid. This causes issues for the nearby nerve. This condition usually causes radiating pain. You may hurt your back but suffer debilitating pain in your extremities.
Fractured vertebrae
A break in the bones of your spine is a fractured vertebra. This can range from minor to severe, and depending on the break, it could impact your spinal cord. If a bone manages to sever your spinal cord, it can lead to paralysis. It may heal over time, or it could be permanent. Fractures also can cause nerve damage, which could lead to pain or lack of sensation in other parts of your body.
Sprains and strains
Probably the least serious type of injuries, and often the most common injuries from a slip and fall accident are sprains and strains. These are basically bruises or muscle overextension in your back. They can be very painful, but with time, will usually go away. Unfortunately, they can be debilitating until they heal because when your back muscles become inflamed, they will spasm, which creates intense bursts of pain that make it difficult to move your body.
Any type of back injury will lead to some downtime for you. If you suffer back pain after a fall, you should seek medical care as soon as possible to avoid further complications.